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How to Write a Cover Letter for Your Grant Proposal

Customer Success Manager at Instrumentl

Reviewed by:

October 27, 2021

Last Updated:

November 20, 2023

Table of Contents

If you’re applying for a grant, the funder will often ask you to submit a cover letter with your grant proposal.

I know, this can be frustrating. You’re already dedicating time to writing a successful grant proposal . Why do you also have to write a cover letter? 

Although it may seem like extra work, it’s actually a critical step to get right. If you don’t nail it, the funder may pass over your application entirely.

To avoid this, we’re going deep into how to write effective cover letters for grants. In this article, we’ll unpack:

  • What cover letters for grant proposals are
  • Why it is an important piece of your grant application
  • And the six parts of a successful cover letter
  • Templates to get you started
  • Pitfalls to avoid

Let’s dive in!

Grant Proposal Template for Nonprofits (+5 Tips Included)

What are Cover Letters for Grant Proposals?

A cover letter for a grant proposal is a document that goes along with your completed proposal. It is your opportunity to demonstrate that you understand the priorities and interests of the funder and how your work aligns with their goals.

An effective cover letter will communicate why your organization and your program deserve to be funded . It should pique the funder’s interest, getting them to read your full proposal. 

Pro Tip : Cover letters are typically only requested by foundations and corporations . In the case of government grants , they don’t ask for cover letters because they have very specific proposal layouts and requirements.

Only submit a cover letter if the funder requests one. Many funders now utilize online application systems which do not require a cover letter, so make sure you understand the requirements of the specific funder.

Overall, the cover letter provides a taste of your organization and request. It should entice the funder and demonstrate why you are a good fit.

Why Are Cover Letters Important for Nonprofits?

If you see the cover letter as just a nother checkbox you need to complete before submittign your application, think again. Here are 4 reasons why you need to think hard about writing a grant proposal cover letter that captures the attention of funders.

First Impressions Matter: Setting the Tone for Your Proposal

The cover letter is the first point of contact that your nonprofit has with a potential funder, and you want to make a good impression ! 

A professional, concise, well-written cover letter sets the tone with the funder for the rest of your proposal. It’s also a chance for you to capture the reader’s attention and get them excited about your proposal.

Building a Connection With Potential Funders

Your cover letter is your opportunity to get the funder engaged .

The cover letter gives you a chance to share your “elevator pitch” with the funder. If a funder walks away from your cover letter feeling excited about your project, you’re leagues ahead of the competition taht submitted a dry, cookie cutter cover letter.

Highlighting Key Points From Your Grant Proposal

A grant proposal’s cover letter isn’t all that different from a potential job’s cover letter.

Highlight the key points that will help you stand out above other applicants . Don’t be afraid to brag a little bit! Tell the funder why your proposal or project is unique and impactful. 

But remember—a cover letter is not an executive summary .

Demonstrating Organizational Maturity and Professionalism

Your cover letter is an opportunity to demonstrate your organization’s maturity and professionalism . Make it known that you receive and manage a large grant portfolio of grants every year, and that you have experience in maintaining grant compliance .

In doing so, you are showing the funder that they can trust you with their award.

Click to find the best grants for your nonprofit from 12,000+ active opportunities.

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6 Parts of a Successful Grant Proposal Cover Letter

Below are general formatting tips for your grant’s cover letter:

  • Your cover letter should be written on company letterhead.
  • The date on the cover letter should match the date of your proposal or application.
  • The letter should be contained to one page, consisting of 3-4 paragraphs.
  • Find the appropriate contact person at the funding organization so you can address your letter to a specific person.
  • The address of the funder should be placed at the top of the letter. Format the address as: contact name, title, funder name, address.
  • Use a formal introduction in the salutation, such as “Dear Mr/Mrs.”
  • The letter should be signed by an appropriate official from your organization, such as the Executive Director.
  • Include the word “ENCLOSURE” or “ATTACHMENT” at the bottom to indicate that the letter is part of a larger packet.

In addition to these basic formatting tips, there are 6 basic parts that you should be sure to include in your grant proposal cover letters.

Introduction: Who You Are

Be sure to introduce your organization at the beginning of your cover letter. 

This provides readers with a background understanding of your nonprofit and its purpose. You want to include things such as the name of your organization, your mission and values , and how long you have been in existence.  

About Your Organization: What You Do

In this section, you want to concisely explain what your organization does—include relevant programs and projects. 

This will show that your organization’s work aligns with their mission and giving priorities.

Need Statement: The Problem You're Addressing

Clearly state the problem that your program or project intends to address. 

This demonstrates to the reader that you are filling a gap that exists in your community. You should include data to support your statements when possible so that the funder knows the need is real.

Project Overview: Your Plan

While space is limited in a cover letter, it is important to share outline a well-thought-out project plan. Showing funders how you plan to utilize their funds will help your proposal stand out.

Funding Request: What You Need

The whole purpose of submitting a grant proposal is to secure funds for a program or project. 

Don’t dance around it. Call out exactly how much money you need for your initiative so that the funder knows up front whether or not your request is in alignment with their giving priorities. 

Pro tip: Often, nonprofits don’t ask for enough funding. To not leave anything on the table, Instrumentl users can quickly uncover how much to ask for in a grant by using our insights on funders.

Closing: Why They Should Support You

You want to end your cover letter by telling the funder why they should support you. Whether it is because your missions are aligned, your project is super unique (ideally, both!), you want to clearly state these reasons in your cover letter. 

Consider closing the letter with an invitation for a site visit or program observation, if appropriate. Be sure to include the contact information for whoever can answer application questions. And end with a confident statement such as “I look forward to speaking with you more about this program.”

3 Sample Cover Letters for Grant Proposals

In this section, we have written original sample grant proposal cover letters. Following each example, we break down the good and bad parts of each letter.

1. Following Up After Meeting With The Funder

Grant proposal cover letter example one breakdown.

Here’s why we like this cover letter:

  • Referencing those prior conversations will remind the funder that you’ve already done some leg work in terms of outreach and research into the foundation.
  • This letter includes erveral of the key parts of a successful cover letter, such as the introduction, information about the organization, funding request, project information, and a confident closing. 

The letter is also signed by the executive director and provides her contact information. However, there could be a bit more emotion incorporated into this letter to help the funder form a connection with the organization and the project .

2. Breaking The Ice With A New Funder

Grant proposal cover letter example two breakdown.

Our second grant proposal cover letter example also covers many of the key components: organizational info, funding request, project information, and a closing. 

We really like how the closing in this letter includes an invitation for the funder to tour the facility and see the work in action—this is such a good idea!

This letter is lacking a statement of need , however. Although it clearly shows alignment between the nonprofit’s work and the funder’s mission, there’s no information about why there is a need in this community for support for people suffering from PTSD . Again, some data points would go a long way here in making this a more compelling case for support.

Also note that this letter does not reference any prior conversations with the funder. This is a good template to use if you are applying to a funder for the first time.

3. Renewing Funding From A Previous Funder

Grant proposal cover letter example three breakdown.

Our final example demonstrates how you would write to a funder that has previously funded your organization.

The nonprofit explains how a prior grant from this foundation helped their program; we LOVE that they included data about how many youth were served from the prior grant. This helps the funder really understand the impact of their donation, which will give them confidence in choosing to fund this organization again. 

This letter also does a great job of showing the nonprofit’s alignment with the funder’s mission and work . Again, this instills confidence in the funder that they’re making a good investment with their money.

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Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Grant Proposal Cover Letter

So, we’ve reviewed what a grant proposal cover letter is, why it is important, and what the key parts are that should be included in the letter. 

You’re probably feeling like you’re almost ready to start writing your own cover letters—but hold on. Before you dive in, let’s review some common pitfalls in cover letter writing and how you can avoid making these mistakes.  

Overloading the Cover Letter with Jargon

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when you’re writing a grant proposal cover letter is filling it with industry-specific jargon .  

Don’t try to impress the funder with all the fancy terminology of your industry. Not all funders will understand this lingo, and it could end up confusing them instead of helping to make the case for your project.  

Ignoring Specific Funder Guidelines and Requests

This is a critical mistake that many grant applicants make. Don’t ignore the funder’s guidelines !

Every funder will have different requests—whether they want you to hand-deliver 10 copies of your single-sided application or request a signature from your Board Chair, it’s imperative that you follow these guidelines.  

This relates to the cover letter as well! If a funder specifically says to not include a cover letter, listen to them!

Being Vague or Generic in Your Statements

Another common pitfall that nonprofits fall into is being overly generic and vague in their cover letters . 

To demonstrate why your nonprofit is a good fit for the funding opportunity, share specifics about your organization, background, mission, and goals.  

Another piece of advice—don’t use the generic “To whom it may concern” or “Dear Human Resources” salutation. Find a specific contact to direct your proposal to so that you can personalize the letter.

Instrumentl is a great resource for finding funder details, providing clear insights into who some of the key people within a foundation are.

Overlooking the Importance of Follow-Up Information

All of the examples that we showed you included details on who the funder should contact if they have any questions . This is so important! 

You don’t want a potential funder to be stuck Google-searching information on your nonprofit if they need to contact you. That’s a sure fire way to get your application declined.

Wrapping Things Up: Cover Letters for Grant Proposals

To conclude, make sure you understand funder requirements, obtain information for a direct contact at the funder, and write the cover letter after you complete the grant proposal application. 

If you follow these steps, you will be well on your way to writing a good grant application letter.

For more tips on enhancing your grant proposals, check out these 21 grant writing examples for nonprofits !

writing a covering letter for a grant proposal

Amelie Heurteux

Amelie Heurteux, a Customer Success Manager at Instrumentl, works day in and day out training nonprofits and grant writers how to efficiently prospect new funders and streamline their grant tracking and management processes.

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writing a covering letter for a grant proposal

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Home › Writing › What is Grant Writing? › How to Write a Great Grant Proposal Cover Letter

How to Write a Great Grant Proposal Cover Letter

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Although your grant proposal cover letter isn’t the most exciting part of the grant proposal, it’s still vital to get funding. T he cover letter is the first contact point a potential organization or funder will have with your nonprofit project.

It’s like going out on a date. Sure, looks aren’t everything. Nevertheless, if you utterly don’t care about how you dress, you’re making it harder for yourself.

And just like your looks, you want to make your grant application cover letter simple and focused on impressing a particular person. It’s the first contact with the executive or organization you wish to request funding. If you want them to read your grant proposal request, they’ll have to like the cover letter first.

More crucial steps will come later, presuming the funder reads your cover letter. Although you can search for sample cover letters, they are usually hard to find.

Research shows that about 35% of grant funders funded 50% or more of the received grant requests. So, your grant proposal cover letter needs to be a complete home run. Here’s how.

How to Write a Grant Proposal Cover Letter 

How to writer a grant proposal cover letter

First of all, an average grant proposal letter shouldn’t be more than one page long. Cover letters are the pitch of your detailed grant proposal. Think of it as a summary of your book.

Before writing the first paragraph, you should open the letter with the contact’s name, title, address, and other related information. Although this might sound obvious, double-check that the contact information is correct. There are countless examples of rushed letters. You don’t want your project to crumble due to a misspelled executive director name.

Do your research before starting the cover letter. You can quickly find the correct information via a single call, email, or simply by doing some Internet scavenging.

Similarly, address the person with “Dear” and add a personal title such as Mr. or Mrs. Again, it’s cover letter 101, so it will feel even worse if you misspell the first step.

If this doesn’t seem like a big deal, look at it like this. Executives have a keen eye for sloppiness. Since they will skim any cover letter first rather than reading it to the last paragraph, you don’t want mistakes popping out.

The initial information tells the funder you didn’t go in headfirst, and proper addressing tells them you’re a potential candidate. If the letter lacks, you’ll be mistaken for a novice instead of a candidate worthy of doing business.

If you’re interested in learning more about the grant writing process, then take a look at our grant writing certification course.

Want to Become a Great Grant Writer

Get Straight to the Point in Your Grant Proposal Cover Letter

Everybody knows why you’re writing a grant proposal cover letter; it’s in the name. Meaning, there’s no reason to sugarcoat it.

After you nail the introduction, it’s time to introduce yourself and your organization. In the first paragraph, format the content into two sentences maximum. Here, you’ll write who you are and your job title. That’s it.

Next, get right to the point. Describe why your organization or foundation needs the grant, what’s your mission, and most importantly, the budget you’re requesting. Maybe you’re working on a community project, or it’s a charity. Either way, make it brief.

While on the topic, you should create a proposal for grants of all sizes. Even if a smaller grant doesn’t suffice, having it can attract larger grants. There are about 900 federal grant programs . Don’t limit yourself.

Another great touch is to validate your project via research. If you have cold data that justifies your organization’s existence, rarely will anyone find a way to object.

If you’re not 100% sure how to format the paragraph, create a sample cover and share it with friends or co-workers. Write the section, read the grant request introduction, then ask two questions .

  • Can you tell me what the project is about? – Although the mission is clear to you as a writer, it might read astrophysical development documents to a fresh pair of eyes.
  • How did you feel when you read the requested funding? – This is to see how another person will react. Keep in mind that how your friend and the funder reacts can differ.

Methods, Strategies & Solutions

In the next paragraph, you should explain how you plan to use the grant to the grantor. By doing this, you’re effectively telling the funder that you have a plan in motion. You can also include a graphical modal for visual representation, depending on the format.

Some writers like to use a numbered sample. The format can work both when you’re explaining your goals and strategies:

  • The organization’s four main goals
  • The project’s five phases

Usually, you want to back up each number with further details. Although an excellent overview, simply including a couple of numbers in your letter won’t suffice. Find the balance between simplicity and complexity. Numbering provides a clear summary, while further details should give the letter a more professional tone.

An additional touch is to offer a timeline where you explain significant milestone and their due dates. You can also do that by using a brief bullet-point format. The timestamps can be months or quarters, depending on the project’s length.

Again, remember you’ll go into full detail in the grant proposal. Although defining strategies and methods isn’t crucial for the cover letter, add it if you can fit it on that one page.

Cover Letters & Necessary Data

After the mission details and budget proposals, it’s time to quickly cover organization info and structure. It can be tedious, but every grant proposal needs it, especially if you grab their attention.

Again, keep it short. Explain your corporate structure and related information in just a couple of sentences, including the founding date. Grant proposals require the data, and although you’re not writing a contract but a cover letter, you still need to present the essential information.

You should also explain how your project matches the funder’s and why the funder should give you the support and funding priority.

As always, double-check the information in your proposal letter, especially if you’re running a nonprofit organization. It’s somewhat easier to get grants for a nonprofit project, but funders are more likely to check the details. Although many think that foundation funding is the primary source for nonprofits, about 80% of income comes from other sources.

If the grant funder likes your cover letter, you want to make it easy for them to contact you about the grant proposal.

Always end all your cover letters with a positive closing line such as “Looking forward to your response.” The goal is for the letter to sound optimistic, grateful, but not needy.

Sign the letter and if your organization has an executive director, have them sign as well.

Common grant proposal cover letter elements

Cover Letter Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

For the final polish of your proposal, you can do things to give the letter a more personal and professional touch.

Ask for Feedback

Before pressing “send,” have co-workers read the sample of the proposal one more time. Good feedback is hard to find, and once you make contact, the fabled typos become irreversible. Don’t be gun shy to even reach out to your wider community for support.

Send the proposal sample page to anyone you can and collect their feedback. Naturally, you don’t want to spend half of your waking life collecting feedback. Still, a cover letter is just words on a paper without the reader understanding what you want, especially when they’re giving you money.

If still not convinced, it takes between 80 to 200 hours to write a grant proposal, and it can cost several thousand dollars if you’re hiring a grant writer . You don’t want a single page to ruin all the hard work.

Use Plain English

We all want to impress others. But using complex words can easily backfire and ruin your chance.

The point of a proposal letter isn’t to show your vocabulary but to state your case as straightforward as possible. If you’re unsure if you’re overdoing it, some helpful apps and websites will tell you if a sentence is too long or too complex.

Final Formatting

Ensure the dates match since you’ll have a date both in the cover letter and the main grant proposal. You don’t want to send a proposal where the grant proposal has April 5th while the cover letter has November 27th. This goes for other files you’ll send as well.

The cover letter should use single-space and leave space between addresses in the heading. Double-space means less room to write the limited information you need. This doesn’t mean you should delete the area between paragraphs. Give the letter room to breathe.

Although unnecessary, it can be a nice touch if you place your signature in live ink. Leave about three empty spaces the complimentary close and your name for the signature.

Send the Cover Letter in PDF

If you’re emailing the grant proposal letter, email the document in PDF. There’s a chance the foundation will offer to sign documents digitally. Additionally, unlike other text files, PDF is safe from malware. Meaning, a PDF will not only look competent but will also leave a good impression in the eyes of the more “tech-savvy” grant funders.

If you are new to grant writing and are looking to break-in, we recommend taking our Grant Writing Certification Course , where you will learn the fundamentals of being a grant writer, how to write proposals that win grants, and how to stand out as a grant writing candidate.

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How to Write an Effective Grant Proposal Cover Letter

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When Do You Include a Cover Letter?

Attributes of a good cover letter, formatting your cover letter, how long should the cover letter be, sample cover letter, mistakes to avoid in your cover letter, make your cover letter stand out.

Joanne Fritz is an expert on nonprofit organizations and philanthropy. She has over 30 years of experience in nonprofits.

Although the main parts of your grant proposal will take up most of your time and energy, don't shortchange your cover letter. Attention to the subtler points of putting the proposal package together can make or break a funding request. Don't turn off your funder with a sloppy cover letter.

Mim Carlson and Tori O'Neal-McElrath, authors of Winning Grants, Step by Step ,   point out that the cover letter should:

  • Introduce your organization to the correct person.
  • Assure the funder that this project has the support of your board of directors .
  • State what you are asking for - how much and for what.

Use a cover letter for proposals to corporations and foundations, but not for federal or state grant applications. Those funders only want what they ask for, and they rarely ask for a cover letter.  

Your cover letter should:

  • Get to the point quickly
  • Does not repeat the information that is in the proposal
  • Tell the reader how well you understand the funder and how your grant fulfills the funder's requirements

Beverly A. Browning, the author of Grant Writing for Dummies , suggests that you write the cover letter after you've completed the entire proposal, and when you are in a reflective mood. Browning says:

"As you consider your great achievement (the finished funding request), let the creative, right side of your brain kick in and connect your feelings of accomplishment to the person who will help make your plans come true."  
  • Use your organization's letterhead. Put the same date on the cover letter that is on the completed grant application. That is the date you will send the grant proposal to the grantor. Using the same date makes all the documents in your proposal package consistent.
  • For the inside address (goes at the top of the letter) use the foundation or corporate contact person's name and title, followed by the funding source's name, address, city, state, and zip code. Double-check this information with a telephone call or an email. Such information changes frequently, so make sure you have the current name and address.
  • In your salutation, use "Dear" plus the personal title (Mr., Ms., Mrs., Dr., Messrs., etc.), followed by the last name. It is critical that you address the letter to a particular person. Call the foundation or corporate office to make sure you have the right person and the correct personal title. These details may seem unimportant, but they do matter.
  • Your first paragraph should be short and focused. Introduce your organization (its legal name, which will be your corporate name  ) and tell the funder how much money you are requesting and why. Include a sentence or two about what your organization does, and then include one research-based point that shows there is a need for what your organization does.
  • Write one or two more brief paragraphs. State your project's purpose and how it fits with the funder's mission or funding priorities. Include the fact that your board of directors fully supports the project.
  • End your letter with a summarizing paragraph. Add what this funding partnership can mean for your project's target audience. You might want to include an invitation for a site visit as well.
  • Use a closing such as "Sincerely."
  • The letter should be signed by the executive director or the board president, or both. Below the signature, type the signer's first name, middle initial, last name, and job title. Although the ED or board president should sign the letter, do include the contact information for the best person to answer questions at the end of the last paragraph.
  • At the bottom of the letter, include the word, "ENCLOSURE" (in all caps).

Limit your cover letter to one page with three or four paragraphs. It should be a quick read.

The tone and specifics of your cover letter may vary depending on whether you've been invited to submit a full proposal after sending a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) , or if this project is your organization's first approach to this particular foundation.

Mary Smith, PhD
Program Officer
Community Foundation
4321 Common Lane
Some City, YZ 55555
Dear Dr. Smith:
The Some City Senior Center respectfully requests a grant of $50,000 for our Senior Latino Community Outreach Pilot Project.
As the largest senior center in Any County, serving over 450 seniors every day, we are aware of the changing demographics in our service area. And we are committed to growing and adapting our center to meet emerging needs. The Senior Latino Community Outreach Pilot Project will allow us to pilot a one-year effort to determine if our center can effectively:
Provide comprehensive access to health and social services to seniors in the Latino communities served by our center, and
 Raise and fully integrate the cultural competency of the board, staff, and volunteers of the Some City Senior Center.
Our board of directors is enthusiastic about this program and eager to launch it so we can become the most inclusive and culturally competent center for seniors in all of our communities that need these services. Should we find at the end of our pilot year that this program is, in fact, successful, our board has committed to including a portion of the project's yearly expenses into our annual operating budget so that the program becomes an integral part of our core services.
Through this project, the Center will become the primary referral given by Health Access Latinos, Families of Any County, and three community clinics within a fifteen-mile radius of our center. We will also accept referrals of Spanish-speaking seniors from any other community agency in our immediate service area.
Thank you for your consideration of our request. I will follow up with you in the next week to answer any questions you might have, as well as to learn whether we might meet with you to discuss the merits of our proposal. Meanwhile, should you have any questions, please feel free to contact Connie Jones, our Director of Development, at (555) 555-5555, x555, or cjones@scsc.org.
Jane Lovely
Executive Director

*Letter reprinted (with modifications) with permission from Winning Grants, Step by Step, Second Edition, Tori O'Neal-McElrath, Jossey-Bass, 2008.  

  • Writing too much.  A cover letter is not a dissertation, nor is it a full proposal. Keep it short and to the point Tip: Have someone else read it. Do they understand it? 
  • Using big words . If you've been to graduate school, you learned to write in a complicated way. Don't do that here. You're not trying to impress someone with your erudition. You only want to state your case as naturally as possible. If you don't know when you're overcomplicating your writing, use an app such as Hemingway . It will tell you when your sentences are hard to read and when you are too wordy.
  • Making Grammatical Mistakes . If you're not sure of your grammar, don't take chances. Use the grammar check in WORD, and, also run your draft through an app such as Grammarly . There is a free version, but the paid version goes well beyond the necessary grammar check.

Sad to say, but your grant proposal may be among hundreds or thousands that a typical foundation will see during an average year. Your cover letter can make the difference in getting to the next step towards funding. But how can you make it stand out?

Don't try anything "cute," as foundation officials will not be impressed.

The cover letter would not be appropriate for a story about a client , although you should have a story for other parts of your proposal, such as the description of the problem. Include a paragraph about why your organization is the one that can best accomplish this mission. Survey your competitive organizations and assess just how and where you excel. That may be in the strength of your staff and volunteers, your experience with this particular problem, or the community support you enjoy.

You don't need to mention the names of competitors or criticize them. Just highlight your strengths. This would be a good time to consult with others around the office. Pull a few people together and brainstorm how your nonprofit excels. 

Fundamentally, the cover letter should be forward moving, easy-to-read and compel the reader into the larger proposal. Don't put any obstacles in the way of the reader that might deter them from reading further.

Join us for an nur event to learn how for do prospecting, pre-award, and post-award management inside one place.

Method to Write an Cover Letter required Your Allocation Proposal

Customer Success Manager toward Instrumentl

Reviewed by:

Occasion 27, 2021

Last Upgraded:

Next 20, 2023

Key of Contents

When you’re applying for one grant, the funder will often inquire you to submitting a top letter with your grant proposal.

I know, is can be fretful. You’re already dedicating time to writing a successful subsidy proposal . Why do you also have to write a cover letter? 

Although it may sound like extra work, it’s actually a critical tread to acquire right. If they don’t clip he, the donor may pass over your application entirely.

At avoid this, we’re leave define the how on write effective front letters for granted. In this article, we’ll unpack:

  • What covers letters for grant proposals am
  • Why e is one important piece of your grant application
  • And the sixteen parts a ampere successful cover mail
  • Templates to get i started
  • Pitfalls to avoid

Let’s dive inbound!

Give Proposal Pattern for Nonprofits (+5 Tips Included)

What are Cover Letters for Grant Proposals?

A cover letter for a grant request is an document that goes along with is completed proposal. It is your opportunity to demonstrate that you understand the priorities and interests of the supporter additionally how your work orientated with their goals.

An effective cover letter will communicate reason your organization and your schedule deserve toward be funded . Is should pique the funder’s equity, getting them to read your completely proposal. 

Pro Tip : Cover letters been typically only requested by foundations and corporations . In the case are authority grants , they don’t asked for front letters because they have very specific proposal layouts and requirements.

Only submit a cover letter if the funder requests sole. Plenty funders now utilize online application systems who do not demand a cover letter, so make sure you understand the requirements of the unique funder.

Overall, the cover letter provides a taste by your organisation and request. It should entice the funder and demonstrate why you are a good fit.

Why Are Cover Letters Important for Nonprofits?

Provided it see the cover letter as just a nother checkbox you need to complete once submittign yours application, think again. Here live 4 reasons why i need to think hardened learn writing a grant proposal covering letter that captures the attention of funders.

First Impressions Matter: Setting the Tone for Insert Proposal

The top letter is the first indent of contact that to nonprofit has with a potential funder, and you want to make ampere good printed ! 

AMPERE professionals, conciseness, well-written cover letter sets aforementioned tone with the funder for the rest of your proposal. It’s plus a chance for you up get that reader’s attention and get them excited about your proposal.

Building a Connection With Potential Funders

The wrap anschreiben is get opportunity to get and funder engaged .

The lid letter gives you an chance to share your “elevator pitch” with the funder. If a sponsor trips away from your cover mail sensation excited about your project, you’re leagues ahead of the competition taht submitted a dry, cookie cutter cover briefe. How to Type a Cover Letter for Your Subsidy Proposal

Highlighting Select Score Off Your Submit Proposals

A grant proposal’s title letter isn’t all that different out a capability job’s cover letter.

Mark the key scoring that will help thou stance out above sundry employee . Don’t be timidly to brag a little bit! Tell that funder why your proposal or project is unique and impactful. 

But remember—a cover letter is not an executive summary .

Proving Supervisory Maturity and Professionalism

Your cover missive is an opportunity for demonstrate your organization’s maturity and professionalism . Produce it known that you receive and manage ampere large grant portfolio by awards every year, and that you have experience int maintaining grant compliance .

In doing so, you are show the funding that they can trust you by their awarding.

Click to find the best grants for yours nonprofit from 12,000+ dynamic opportunities.

Featured 150+ subcategories

6 Parts to a Successful Subsidy Motion Cover Letter

Below are general formatting selling for your grant’s cover letter:

  • Your top schriftzug should live written on company notepaper.
  • The date on the cover schriftzug should match the date of your get other claim.
  • The mailing require be enclosed to one page, consisting of 3-4 paragraphs.
  • Find the appropriate contact person at the how organization so you can address your letter to a specific person.
  • The home of the donors should be place along the top of the letter. Format the address as: contact name, title, funders name, address.
  • Benefit one formal introduction in aforementioned salutation, such as “Dear Mr/Mrs.”
  • Who letter should be signed by an appropriate official from your organization, such as the Generaldirektion Director.
  • Include the word “ENCLOSURE” either “ATTACHMENT” by the bottom to indicate that the letter is part off a larger packet.

In addition to these basic formatting tips, there belong 6 basic parts so you should be safely go incorporate in your donate motion cover letters.

Introduction: Who You Are

Be sure to introduce your organization toward the back of your shroud letter. 

This provides readers with a background understanding of your nonprofit and its goal. You want to include things such as the designate of your organization, your mission and values , plus how long it have since inbound existence.  

About You Organization: What You Do

For this section, you want go concisely explain what your organization does—include relevant programs and projects. 

The will show that your organization’s work aligns with their mission and giving priorities.

Need Command: The Problem You're Addressing

Clean condition the problem that my program or project intends to address. 

This demonstrates to the reader ensure you are refilling one gauge that exists in your community. You should include data in support your claims although possible so that the funder knows the need is genuine. Methods to Write an Effective Grant Proposal Cover Letter

Project Review: Your Plan

While space is limited in a cover letter, it is important to share outline a well-thought-out project plan. Showing funders how you project in utilize their funds will help your proposal stand going.

Funding Request: About You Need

The whole purpose concerning submitted a giving proposal is the safely funds on a program or project. 

Don’t dance around it. Call out exactly how much money you need for your citizen so which the funder knows increase front whether oder not your request is in alignment use their giving priorities. 

Pro tip: Often, nonprofits don’t ask for enough funding. For doesn leave anything on the table, Instrumentl users can quickly uncover how much go ask for in a grant by using ours insights on funders.

Closing: Why They Shall Support You

To want to out your cover letter by saying that funders why they should technical yours. Whether it is because insert missions are arranged, your show are super unique (ideally, both!), you want to clearly state these reasons in your screen letter.  Sample Applications & More

Consider closing the letter to an invitation for a site visit or download observation, if appropriate. Be sure to include the communication information for whoever can answer application questions. And end the adenine confident statement such as “I look move to speaking with you more about the program.” Cover letter for grant make: Sample & product for success

3 Sample Back Books by Grant Schemes

In this view, we have written innovative sample grant proposal coverage letters. Following each example, we crush downward the right the bad parts concerning each letter. How to Compose a Professional Cover Letter for Grant Tips

1. Following Go After Meeting With The Funder

Grant proposal cover letter example one breakdown.

Here’s why are like this cover letter:

  • Refining those prior conversations want remind the funders that you’ve already done some leg work in terms of outreach and research into that foundation. In dieser post, we poke into answering what are cover letters for grant proposals, what manufactured a healthy back letter vs. a bad one, three examples of cover letters since grant proposals, and moreover.
  • Is letter includes erveral of one key portions of adenine successful cover letter, such as which preface, resources about of organization, funding request, undertaking data, or a confident closing.  Learn the do's, don'ts, real examples of writing a compelling cover letter for grant writer positions. Rack out from the competition with to expert tips!

The letter is also signed by the executive director plus provides her contact information. However, there able be a bit more emotion incorporated into those letter for help the funder form a connection with the organization both the project .

2. Breaking Aforementioned Ice With A New Funder

Grant proposal cover letter example two breakdown.

Our secondly sponsor proposal cover letter sample also covers many of the main components: org product, funding request, project information, and a closing.  Your grant proposal cover letter is of away the most critical parts of your proposal package. Using these tips can make it perfect.

We really like how aforementioned closing in this letter includes an invitation for the funder go circuit the facility and seeing the work in action—this is that an good notion! Sample Grant Proposal

This letter is lacking a statement of what , however. Although it clearly shows matching between the nonprofit’s work and the funder’s commission, there’s no information regarding why there is a need in this community for support for join suffering from PTSD . Reload, some data point would go a long way here in making this a more compelling case by support.

Also hint that here mail done not related any prior conversations includes the financial. This be a good template to use if you are applying to a funder for the first time.

3. Renewing Promote From A Previous Funder

Grant proposal cover letter show three disruption.

Our finished example demonstrates how you would write to adenine funder so has previously funded your organization.

The nonprofit annotated how a prior grant from this foundation helped their program; we LOVING that yours included data about how many youth inhered served from the prior grant. Here helps the funder really understand the impact of their donation, whose will give them confidence in choosing to fund this order again.  Patterns Grant-Proposal

This letter also can adenine great my is how the nonprofit’s position with who funder’s mission and work . Again, this instills confidence in the funder that they’re manufacturing a good investment include their money.

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Mistakes to Avoid Whereas Writing a Grant Proposal Cover Letter

So, we’ve reviewed what ampere grant proposal lid note is, why e is important, press what the key spare are that should be included in the letter. 

You’re probably feeling like you’re almost ready toward start writing your own cover letters—but stop on. Before you dive in, let’s review some common pitfalls in cover letter writings and how you can avoid making these mistakes.   Which screen letter for a grant proposal is aforementioned most important part. Use we tips and template to write a strong cover letter to get the funds you need.

Overloading the Cover Dear with Jargon

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when you’re writing a grant proposal cover letter is filling it use industry-specific jargon .  

Don’t try toward impress the funder with any the fancy terminology is your industry. Not all funders will understand this lingo, and thereto able end up confusing them instead of helping to construct the koffer for your project.   How to write a back letter for a grant proposed · 1. Use a formal header · 2. Introduce thy organization · 3. About the purpose of your ...

Ignoring Specific Funder Guidelines both Requests

This is adenine critical mistake the many grant applicants take. Don’t forget that funder’s guidelines !

Every funder will have different requests—whether they want you up hand-deliver 10 copies of own single-sided application or claim a signed from your Board Sitting, it’s imperative such you follow these guidelines.   A collection of sample grant applications or other resources assuming by NIAID investigators.

This relates to one envelope buchstabe as well! If a funder specifically says to not include a cover letter, auditing the them!

Being Vague or Generic in Your Statements

Another common trick that nonprofits fall into is being overly generic or vague in they cover literal . 

To demonstrate reason your nonprofit be an good fit for the funding opportunity, percentage specifics about your organization, background, mission, and goals.   The grant application should contain a signed letter from each collaborator to the applicant so lists the contribution fellow or she intends to ...

Next piece of advice—don’t use to generic “To any it may concern” or “Dear Human Resources” salutation. Find ampere specific click to direct your proposal to so the thou can personalize the letter.

Instrumentl can a great resource for finding funder details, make clarity insights into with some of the key people within a foundation are.

Overlooking which Importance of Follow-Up Information

Sum for the examples which we shown you included details on those the funder shall contact if your have any questions . This is therefore important! 

You don’t want one potential funder to shall stuck Google-searching information on their nonprofit if they want on contact you. That’s a sure fire way until get your application rejects.

Wrapping Things Up: Cover Letters available Grant Proposals

To conclude, make sure you understand funder need, obtain related for one direct contact at the donors, and write an cover letter after you complete the grant proposal application. 

If you follow these steps, you will be well on insert way to writing adenine good granted application mail.

On more tips on enhancing your grant proposals, check out these 21 grant writing examples for nonprofits !

Wrapping Things Up: Cover Letters for Grant Proposals

The concluded, perform sure you understand funder need, preserve information for a direct contact at the funder, and write the cover letter after you complete this grant proposal application.  Writing a Grant Writer Top Letters: Do's, Don'ts & Product

Wenn you follow that steps, to will be well on your road for writing a good sponsor application letter.

For more tips at enhancing owner grant proposals, control outbound these 21 donate writing examples with nonprofits !

writing a covering letter for a grant proposal

Amelie Heurteux

Amelie Heurteux, a Customer Success Manager at Instrumentl, worked day are and day out schooling nonprofits and grant writers wherewith to efficiently prospect new funders and streamline their grant tracking and management processes. Wie To Write a Grant Proposals Cover Letter (With Example) | Indeed ...

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These days, it feels like Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere. We spokes to four industry experts to lessons how they are—or are not—using AI toward support their grant-seeking efforts. Instructions to Compose a Professional Cover Letter for Grant Proposals Are you in and print of crafting your inaugural grant proposal title letter? Or possibly yours are seeking insights the enhancing insert approach at writing an application letter in funding support? In this comprehensive guide, we leave

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writing a covering letter for a grant proposal

Cover Letter Ninjas

Cover Letter For Grant Proposal: Sample And Tips

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If you are writing a grant proposal, composing the proposal itself will take most of your time and effort. That is as it should be. However, you shouldn’t write off the importance of the accompanying cover letter altogether either. This is an important document that serves as an introduction and contributes to the overall quality and persuasion of your grant application.

We assume your cause is worthwhile and that you have already slayed most of your proposal writing. So here we are focusing on your cover letter for the grant proposal. Keep reading for a great sample letter, then we have some great tips for composing your own.

Grant Proposal Cover Letter Sample in .docx Format

grant proposal cover letter example

Download example (Word version)

Cover Letter Example For Grant Proposal – Text Format

Dear Dr. James,

My name is Lydia Ninja, and I am the director of the Urban Opportunities Fund (UOF). We respectfully request a grant in the amount of $15,000 in support of our Green Entrepreneur project.

Our organization serves neighborhoods in the North City corridor. Currently, our programs directly impact more than 100,000 residents. We also provide additional support services to other non-profits in the area. 

Our goal is to create financial independence and economic sovereignty in North City, where services and opportunities are often limited. We also work hard to ensure that all initiatives improve the quality of life for all citizens, even those who are not directly involved with UOF. To that end, we have launched the Green Entrepreneur Project.

As you know, healthy economic development in a depressed area must include:

  • Local Ownership
  • Products And Services to Benefit Residents
  • A Commitment to Community Improvement From Stakeholders

The Green Entrepreneur Project is a pilot initiative with the goal of mentoring, training, and providing seed funding to entrepreneurs who are interested in launching ‘green’ businesses. These include ecological restoration firms, native landscaping companies, green consumer products, storm and wastewater management, urban gardening, etc.

We are excited to launch this program. Our belief is that it will create economic opportunities while improving biodiversity, air quality, and water quality. We also believe that it will serve as a test of interest for future green initiatives.

If successful, future funding will be provided by money released by other programs that are set to expire in 2023. We plan to begin accepting applications for admission into our program immediately after receiving funding.

Thank you for your consideration. We would like to set up a meeting in the next 30 days to discuss any further details. If you are interested, we would love to invite you to visit our facility as well.

Respectfully,

Lydia Ninja

Grant Proposal Cover Letter Tips 

Now, check out some great tips to help you pitch your organization and get funding for your research initiative.

Verify That You Need a Cover Letter

As a general rule, applications for federal grants don’t require cover letters. If that’s the case, you should skip this step. You won’t improve your chances by filling one. Thus, it is best to only include the required documents. For state, local, or corporate grants, review the application requirements. Then, follow those to the letter.

Your Cover Letter Will Probably be Long

There’s a lot of information to include in your cover letter. You are introducing your organization, providing details about your project, and giving a basic explanation of how the funding will be used. You don’t need to go into every detail. That’s what the proposal is for. However, you shouldn’t expect the letter to be less than three paragraphs, either. 

Our advice, skip the short cover letter format and go for a slightly longer letter — up to two pages is alright in this case. 

Show Who You Serve

Corporations and government agencies both want to be assured that their funds serve a diverse demographic and that services are offered to those who truly need it. Because of this, your letter should include a description of the community you plan to cater to during your project. 

Debi D-H

Be Specific

In the opening of your letter, be sure to include your full name, the formal name of your organization, the amount of money you are seeking, and the initiative you want to be funded. Next, detail what your project will specifically do, and the benefits the community served will gain.

Don’t Be Redundant

Even though your cover letter requires a lot of details, it should be entirely its own document. Remember that you are essentially summarizing your request, and introducing your organization. You won’t help make your case by simply repeating the points in your proposal or reciting your entire academic career . Keep in mind that this is your opportunity to make an emotional connection between your project, and the group that could help you with funding it. 

Final Tip: Professionalism is Key

Your proposal letter must be easy to read, attractive, and professional. The folks who read these, and determine if your package will make it for further consideration, are often quite critical. Thus, make sure you get everything right!

Choose a great cover letter template, make sure your writing is flawless, and have a friend read over it for clarity and sincerity. Then, you should be ready to submit your proposal.

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Step-By-Step Guide to Writing a Grant Proposal

Writing a grant proposal is incredibly time-consuming.

No joke. It's one of the most complicated documents you could write in your entire life.

There are different requirements, expectations, and formats—not to mention all the prep work you need to do, like market research and clarifying your project timeline.

Depending on the type of company or organization you represent and which grants you’re applying for, your grant could run anywhere from a dozen to a hundred pages. It’s a lot of work, and we’re here to help.

In this guide to grant proposals, we offer writing steps and examples, as well as resources and templates to help you start applying for funding right away.

Graphic showing increased success when writing grant proposals

Types of grant proposals

Grant proposals typically fall into one of these main categories:

Research grant proposals - Research grant proposals are usually sent by university professors or private research organizations in order to fund research into medical, technological, engineering, and other advancements.

Nonprofit grant proposals - Nonprofits send grant proposals to philanthropic organizations and government agencies to acquire funds for community development, health, education, and similar projects.

Technology grant proposals - Grant proposals can also be sent by technology companies (software, hardware, solar, recycling, environmental, manufacturing, health, and other types of tech companies). These proposals are often sent to large government organizations looking for solutions to current and future problems, as well as VC firms looking to invest in smart startups.

Small business grant proposals - Local governments often give grant awards to small businesses to help them kickstart, market, or expand.

Arts grants - Grants allow artists that would otherwise lack the financial resources to devote extended periods of time to their art. They might need to complete an installation that can be enjoyed by the community as part of the grant.

Grant RFP proposals - There can also be a request for proposals (RFP) for just about anything. From multinational organizations like the UN to family philanthropic grants, you can find RFPs for a variety of projects.

How to prep before you write

Before you can sit down to write your grant proposal, you’ll need to have a deep understanding of:

Existing scientific literature (for research grants) or relevant reports and statistics

Market and competitor landscape

Current available solutions and technologies (and why they’re not good enough)

Expected positive impact of your project

The methods and strategies you’ll employ to complete your project

Project phases and timelines

Project budget (broken down into expense categories)

With these things all buttoned down, you’ll have a much easier time writing the sections that cover those details, as well as the sections that highlight their meaning and importance (such as your statement of need and objectives).

Create a document where you can play around. Take notes, write down ideas, link out to your research, jot down different potential budgets, etc.

Then, when you’re ready to write, create a fresh document for your actual grant proposal and start pulling from your notes as needed.

How to write a grant proposal (ideal format)

Now, let’s get writing.

The ideal outline for a grant proposal is:

Cover Letter

Executive summary, table of contents, statement of need, project description, methods and strategies, execution plan and timeline, evaluation and expected impact, organization bio and qualifications.

If you’re not writing a super formal grant proposal, you might be able to cut or combine some of these sections. When in doubt, check with the funding agency to learn their expectations for your proposal. They might have an RFP or other guidelines that specify the exact outline they want you to follow.

Note: In business proposals, the cover letter and executive summary are the same, and those phrases are used interchangeably. But for grant proposals, the cover letter is a short and simple letter, while the executive summary offers a description of key aspects of the proposal.

In your cover letter, you'll write a formal introduction that explains why you are sending the proposal and briefly introduces the project.

What to include :

The title of the RFP you are responding to (if any)

The name of your proposed project (if any)

Your business or nonprofit organization name

A description of your business or organization, 1-2 sentences

Why you are submitting the proposal, in 1-2 sentences

What you plan to do with the funds, in 2-4 sentences

Dear [Name], The Rockville Community Garden is responding to the city of Rockville’s request for proposals for nonprofit community improvement projects. The Rockville Community Garden is a space for relaxation, healthy eating, exercise, and coming together. We are submitting a proposal to request funding for Summer at the Garden. Every summer, parents are tasked with finding childcare for their children, and we have received countless requests to host a summer camp. We're requesting funding to cover tuition for 100 low-income children ages 5 to 12. The funds will make our summer camp accessible to those who need it most. Thank you for your consideration, [Signature] [Title]

The executive summary of a grant proposal goes into far more detail than the cover letter. Here, you’ll give

Statement of Need overview, in 2 - 5 sentences

Company Bio and Qualifications, in 2 - 5 sentences

Objectives, in 2 - 5 sentences

Evaluation and Expected Impact, in 2 - 5 sentences

Roman architecture stands the test of time until it doesn’t. Roman building techniques can last thousands of years but will crumble to dust instantaneously when earthquakes strike. Meanwhile, our own building techniques of reinforced concrete and steel last only a couple of centuries. Ancient Architecture Research firm is dedicated to modernizing roman building techniques to create new structures that are earthquake safe and sustainable. Our principle investigators hold PhDs from renowned architecture universities and have published in numerous journals. Our objectives for the research grant are to create a prototype structure using Roman building techniques and test it on a shake table to simulate an earthquake. The prototype will pave the way for our application for an amendment to the California building code to permit unreinforced masonry construction. With the success of the prototype, we will prove the safety and viability of this technique. This project will have an enormous potential impact on several crises plaguing the state of California now and in the future: disaster relief, affordable housing, homelessness, and climate migration. Unreinforced masonry construction can be taught and learned by amateur builders, allowing volunteers to quickly deploy temporary or permanent structures.

Next up, you need your Table of Contents! Make sure it matches the names of each of your following sections exactly. After you’ve written, edited, and finalized your grant proposal, you should then enter accurate page numbers to your TOC.

Next up is the statement of need. This is where you sell why you’re submitting your grant request and why it matters.

A description of who will benefit from your proposal

Market and competitive analysis

Statistics that paint a picture of the problem you’re solving

Scientific research into how the problem is expected to worsen in the future

Reasons why your small business deserves funding (founder story, BIPOC founder, female founder, etc.)

While women hold 30% of entry-level jobs in tech, they only make up 10% of C-suite positions. The Female Leadership Initiative seeks to develop women tech leaders for the benefit of all genders. Female leaders have been proven to positively impact work-life balance, fairer pay, creativity, innovation, teamwork, and mentorship.

In this section, you’ll describe the basics of your research project, art project, or small business plan. This section can be kept fairly short (1 - 3 paragraphs), because you’ll be clarifying the details in the next 5 paragraphs.

The name of your project (if any)

Who will benefit from your project

How your project will get done

Where your project will take place

Who will do the project

The Fair Labor Project will seek to engage farm workers in the fields to identify poor working conditions and give back to those who ensure food security in our communities. Trained Spanish-speaking volunteers will visit local farms and speak with workers about their pay and work conditions, helping to uncover any instances of abuse or unfair pay. Volunteers will also pass out new work gloves and canned food. Volunteers will also place orders for work boots and ensure that boots are later delivered to workers that need them.

You should also write out clear goals and objectives for your grant proposal. No matter the type of agency, funding sources always want to see that there is a purpose behind your work.

Measurable objectives tied directly to your proposed project

Why these objectives matter

We seek to boost volunteer turnout for our voter registration efforts by 400%, allowing us to reach an additional 25,000 potential voters and five additional neighborhoods.

Now it’s time to clarify how you’ll implement your project. For science and technology grants, this section is especially important. You might do a full literature review of current methods and which you plan to use, change, and adapt. Artists might instead describe their materials or process, while small business grant writers can likely skip this section.

The names of the methods and strategies you will use

Accurate attribution for these methods and strategies

A literature review featuring the effectiveness of these methods and strategies

Why you are choosing these methods and strategies over others

What other methods and strategies were explored and why they were ultimately not chosen

“We plan to develop our mobile app using React Native. This framework is widely regarded as the future of mobile development because of the shared codebase that allows developers to focus on features rather than create everything from scratch. With a high workload capacity, react native also provides user scalability, which is essential for our plan to offer the app for free to residents and visitors of Sunny County.”

You’ll also need to cover how you plan to implement your proposal. Check the RFP or type or grant application guidelines for any special requirements.

Project phases

The reasoning behind these phases

Project deliverables

Collaborators

In our experience and based on the literature,11,31-33 program sustainability can be improved through training and technical assistance. Therefore, systematic methods are needed to empirically develop and test sustainability training to improve institutionalization of evidence-based programs. This will be accomplished in three phases. In Phase 1, (yr. 1, months 1-6) we will refine and finalize our Program Sustainability Action Planning Model and Training Curricula. As part of this refinement, we will incorporate experiential learning methods3-6 and define learning objectives. The Program Sustainability Action Planning Training will include action planning workshops, development of action plans with measurable objectives to foster institutional changes, and technical assistance. We will also deliver our workshops in Phase 1 (yrs. 1 and 2, months 6-15) to 12 state TC programs. Phase 2 (yrs. 1, 2, and 3) uses a quasi-experimental effectiveness trial to assess the Program Sustainability Action Planning Training in 24 states (12 intervention, 12 comparison). Evaluation of our training program is based on the theory of change that allows for study on how a change (intervention) has influenced the design, implementation, and institutionalization of a program.7,8,11,28 We will collect data on programmatic and organizational factors that have been established as predictors of sustainability9,11 using state level programmatic record abstraction and the Program Sustainability Assessment Tool (PSAT)43 to assess level of institutionalization across intervention and comparison states at three time points. Data will be used to establish the efficacy of the Program Sustainability Action Planning Model and Training Curricula. In Phase 3 (yr. 4, months 36-48), we will adapt our training based on results and disseminate Program Sustainability Action Planning Model and Training materials. - From Establishing The Program Sustainability Action Planning Training Model

A budget table with various expense categories

An explanation of what each category entails

Expenses broken down by month or year (if this fits your proposal)

Here’s an example budget table with expense categories:

Grant proposal budget table

You can then include a brief description of each category and the expenses you expect within them.

A great grant proposal should clarify how you will measure positive outcomes and impact.

Details on the expected impact of your project

Who will benefit from your project and how

Your plan for evaluating project success

How you will measure project success

We will measure the success of the project by monitoring the school district’s math scores. We are expecting an 8% increase in state testing scores from the fall to the spring across grades 1 through 3.

And lastly, finish up your grant proposal with a bio of your organization, your company, or yourself.

Company name

The names of people on your team

Professional bios for everyone on your team

Your educational background

Any relevant awards, qualifications, or certifications

Jane Doe received her masters in fine arts specializing in ceramics from Alfred University. She has received the Kala Fellowship and the Eliza Moore Fellowship for Artistic Excellence.

Successful grant proposal examples

Want to write winning grant applications?

We’ve rounded up examples of successful, awarded grants to help you learn from the best.

Check out these real examples across science, art, humanities, agriculture, and more:

Funded arts and research grants from the University of Northern Colorado

Samples of awarded proposals from the Women’s Impact Network

National Cancer Institute examples of funded grants

Institute of Museum and Library Services sample applications

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program awarded grants examples

Grant application and funding resources

To help you get started writing and sending grant proposals, we’ve found some great application resources.

Research grants:

United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grants

William T. Grant Foundation grants on reducing inequality

Russel Sage Foundation research grants

Nonprofit grants:

Walmart’s Local Community Grants

Bank of America’s Grant Funding for Nonprofits

Canada GrantWatch’s database of nonprofit grants

Technology grants:

Google Impact Challenges

UN Sustainable Development Goals Fund

US Department of Energy Funding

Small business grants:

US Chamber of Commerce Small Business grants

Canada Small Business Benefits Finder

US Small Business Administration (SBA) grants

Arts grants :

National Endowment for the Arts grants

Art Prof Artist Grants

Canada Council for the Arts grants

Get started with our proposal writing templates

The best way to start any proposal is with a template. A template informs your writing, while drastically speeding up the time it takes to design an attractive proposal.

All of our 75+ proposal templates can easily be adapted for any purpose, including grants or requests for funding. Try our project proposal template and make it your own by adding your executive summary, statement of need, project description, execution plan, budget, and company bio.

Start a free trial to check out all of our proposal software features , including reusable content snippets, e-signatures, viewing and signing analytics, and more.

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How to Create Business Proposals Faster

November 14, 2017

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How to Write a Winning Proposal Cover Letter (Plus 5 Real Examples)

Senior Content Marketing Manager at Loopio

First impressions are important—especially in the world of proposals.

That’s why writing a good cover letter is an essential step towards winning a bid. In the request for proposal (RFP) process, this single-page letter marks your first opportunity to grab a prospect’s attention and make it clear that your company is uniquely positioned to solve their problem. So if you’re currently using boilerplate copy… Stop. Immediately .

In this blog, you’ll learn how to write custom proposal cover letters that grab a prospect’s attention and increase your chances of winning RFP responses . Plus, five examples of real proposal cover letters from industry pros.

In this article, you’ll learn: 

What is a Proposal Cover Letter?

  • What to Include in a Proposal Cover Letter
  • How to Write a Proposal Cover Letter
  • 5 Real Proposal Cover Letter Examples ⭐

Next Steps: Build Quality Proposals Faster

A proposal cover letter is a single-page document used to pitch your business offerings to a potential client. In it, the customer can tell whether you’re genuinely engaged and have done your research—or if you’ve simply copy and pasted generic language from past business proposals.

It’s also your first opportunity to convince a client to why they should continue reading your proposal. Considering the average team spends 32 hours writing a single RFP response , it’s critical that your proposal cover letter makes a good impression.

Eileen Kent, President, Custom Keynotes LLC

What Should You Include in a Proposal Cover Letter?

Like any good cover letter, your proposal should open with a unique offer or positioning. It’s important to establish early on why your team is best suited to solve a client’s problem.

A strong proposal cover letter includes:

  • A greeting : Introduce your company and what you do.
  • Clear summary: Describe your value propositions at a high-level. Be sure to connect these points to your client’s needs. ( Also known as an executive summary. )
  • Personalized offer: Explain to the client what you can uniquely provide to solve their problem.
  • Relevant references: Help the prospect understand why they should choose you over competitors.
  • Visuals: If you have a designer on your team, include visuals that help emphasize the most important content on this page. For example, use callout boxes to make value propositions stand out for busy procurement teams who are skimming the page.

From the offer you present, to the visuals you include, the details in your proposal cover letter should be all about the client. The goal is to show how your company shines before they even get into the details of your proposal. Demonstrate the qualities that you bring to this potential customer by starting out your relationship on the right foot.

Jon Williams, Managing Director of Strategic Proposals , shares the key points you should concisely hit to be successful.

writing a covering letter for a grant proposal

How to Write a Winning Proposal Cover Letter

From reading the RFP thoroughly, to outlining a clear offer, there are six critical steps that seasoned proposal professionals recommend you take to craft a quality cover letter. ( Psst…you can fast-track these steps by using AI for proposal writing . )

Step 1: Read the RFP Cover to Cover

This step seems obvious, but it’s surprising how many teams skip it. You must read the RFP thoroughly, from cover to cover, before beginning your letter.

While reading, take note of any recurring themes from your prospect. Perhaps they focus on quality of design and ease of use. Or maybe they emphasize needing certain functionalities or features—whatever the case, Kori Warriner of KCI Technologies recommends you consider the following questions as you read through the request for proposal:

Questions to consider:

  • What is the client’s reason behind the project? (revitalization, aging infrastructure, etc.)
  • ​​Where is the funding for the project coming from?
  • Does the client have any hot-button issues regarding the project?
  • What is the desired end-result?
  • What would speak to the client? (retirement-friendly, aesthetics, budget, etc.)

Kori Warriner, Marketing Coordinator

While questions may differ by industry, the idea remains the same. Reading the RFP thoroughly helps you better understand the problems your prospect is facing. Which in turn help you paint a clearer picture of how your company can support them.

(It can also help spark ideas for win themes, or specific language, that truly resonates with the prospect—more on that later.)

“Instead of saying ‘we are pleased’ or other overused statements such as that, I introduce my company, and then switch back to talking about what we can do to help the client reach their goals,” Kori explains.

Step 2: Capture Your Prospect’s Attention Early

Chances are, your prospect is extremely busy. They’re likely to skim your proposal cover letter—which is why you should focus on making it memorable. Use it to create a connection to your prospect and capture their attention early in the proposal.

In the structure of a proposal , the first paragraph is the best place to earn your reader’s attention, shares Senior Proposal Consultant Kelly Allen.

“Try to capture the reader in the first paragraph by relating to them in some way. If they are a current client, leverage your relationship. If not, demonstrate a clear understanding of what they need.” Kelly Allen, Senior Proposal Consultant, UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group)

Step 3: Use Clear, Competitive Win Themes

Once you identify their distinct needs, you can formulate which key themes need to be identified in your cover letter. Then, narrow it down to the most persuasive reasons that your prospect should choose your proposal over a competitor. Eileen Kent, President of Custom Keynotes, explains that these are also known as “ win themes ”.

Win themes should be based on what the customer told you they wanted. Position yourself as the one company that can deliver exactly what your prospect is looking for. To do this well, it’s essential that you also understand what your competition is doing.

Here’s how to brush up on what your competitors are offering:

  • Review competitors’ websites
  • Read competitors’ financial statements
  • Look at review websites like G2 or Forrester reports including your competition
  • Ask if clients are willing to share competitors’ past RFPs (You never know, unless you ask)

At this stage, you’ll want to focus on how you can stand out from the competition. Eileen also recommends acknowledging any elephants in the room. By that, she means anything that the client may consider your team’s weakness.

She recommends addressing weak points head on to leave a good impression, “The elephant in the room could be your business size. Address it by talking about how you formed a tight team who have exceeded performance expectations, and worked together for years, so they see that as a strength instead,” she explains.

Step 4: Provide a Personalized Offer

Now that you’ve grabbed your prospect’s attention, you need to maintain it. Do this by outlining clear benefits, which speak directly to their pain points in an enticing and clear way.

You should outline how your product will positively impact the buyer and identify what they will get out of your partnership.

Cristina Miller, Proposal Writer, Gallup

Step 5: Use a Strong Closing Statement

Your closing statement should be concise, reiterate your capabilities, and highlight the value you deliver. But don’t forget that it’s also an opportunity to connect with your prospect through the proposal process.

“To build a connection, you have to ignore outdated writing advice and not be afraid to use real language” says Rebecca Baumgartner, Sr. Manager, Proposals, PFS .

“Whoever is reading your cover letter can immediately tell if you’re hiding behind jargon or parroting the language of the RFP because you don’t understand what they need,” she explains.

“But when you write authentically, you have the opportunity to show the client you’ve been listening.”

Rebecca Baumgartner headshot

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

When crafting your proposal cover letter, there are a few final checkpoints to leave your prospect with a good impression.

Graphics aren’t necessary for a proposal cover letter, but they can be helpful. For example: highlighting a quote from a customer in a different font, or using callout boxes to emphasize your key value propositions. Use visuals that help to emphasize your main points, not distract from them.

Here’s what Izane Cloete-Hamilton, CPP APMP, of nFold recommends.

  • Use a company letterhead
  • Address the letter to the individual specified in the RFP
  • Sign the cover letter from a senior person at your company
  • If the response is from a strategic partnership between two companies, use dual signatures
  • Ensure your letter is no longer than one page

Izane Cloete-Hamilton, nFold

Proposal Cover Letters (5 Real Templates)

Now that you know what steps to follow, it’s time to look at some real examples of business proposal cover letters. While you don’t want to copy a boilerplate letter, these templates may provide helpful guidance for your next proposal.

Here are the types of proposal cover letter examples you’ll see above:

  • Real proposal cover letter example from a security company
  • Example proposal cover letter for an amusement park
  • Real proposal letter & executive summary from an enterprise design consultancy
  • Winning cover letter example from KCI technologies
  • Another proposal cover letter example from a security company

Looking for a sample grant proposal cover letter? Check out this article .

Rachelle Ray, RMR Consulting

To make more time for writing winning proposal cover letters, you’ll need to make some efficiency gains in your overall RFP process. Start by setting your team up with a proposal software that can improve speed and collaboration amongst your team.

Take Aspen Medical for example. Their business development team started using Loopio’s proposal platform in October of 2019. Within a few short months, they were putting together proactive proposals in just 15-30 minutes and seeing a big return on investment (ROI).

In fact, a survey of 165 companies RFP ROI found that those who consistently use proposal software have achieved results of:

  • 51% more RFP responses
  • 42% less time spent answering proposal questions
  • 85% of companies win more business

If you’re looking to improve the pace of your next proposal, try Loopio’s software.  

Improve Your Proposal Writing 📝

Want to learn how to master your craft? Read more about proposal writing skills or how to craft a repeatable RFP response template .

Related posts

The best proposal software for 2024 (top four tools), the raci chart: how to respond faster to security questionnaires, 51 fascinating rfp statistics on the state of bidding in 2023.

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How do I write a proposal cover letter?

The cover letter often is your proposal's first chance to connect your project with the reader's philanthropic mission. It goes on top of a proposal, but it is not the same as an executive summary, which states your proposal's key points.

At minimum, your cover letter should:

  • Request your dollar amount and introduce your project in the first sentence
  • Describe how your project and/or organization will further the foundation's mission
  • Reference your most recent contact with the foundation
  • List the proposal's contents
  • Give contact details in case the funder wants additional information
  • Be signed by your organization's executive director
Dive in to this topic with our self-paced course: Crafting compelling grant proposals Learn how to craft a compelling and competitive proposal.

Sample cover letters

Samples of actual cover letters are usually hard to find because the donor and applicant may be very protective of these documents. Also, they usually are very specific to the project, organization, and funder.

However, our Sample Documents section is a searchable collection of proposals, cover letters, letters of inquiry, and proposal budgets that were actually funded. Each proposal includes a critique by the decision-maker who awarded the grant.

You also might check if anyone in your professional networks would be willing to share sample proposals and cover letters.

See also our related Knowledge Base articles:

How do I write a grant proposal?

What should be included in a letter of inquiry? Where can I find samples?

More articles on proposal writing.

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Explore resources curated by our staff for this topic:, staff-recommended websites, how to write a cover letter for your proposal.

Lists attributes and tips to write good cover letters. Sample cover letter is on Page 2.

Sample Cover Letter,Proposal,Letter Proposal

Each section includes a brief description of its purpose and what to include.

Sample Cover Letters & Proposals

Nonprofit Guides has a sample proposal cover letter, letter of inquiry, proposal, budget, and other items that may be of use to grantseekers.

Sample Grant-Proposal Cover Letter

Sample cover letter that introduces a grant proposal.

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Planning and Writing a Grant Proposal: The Basics

Grant Proposal Writing is Exciting, Imaginative Work

Download this Handout PDF

Overview Additional Resources about Grants and Grant Writing Considering the Audience, Purpose, and Expectations of a Grant Proposal Common Elements of Grant Proposals General Tips Successful Sample Proposals

So, you want to write a grant proposal? This is exciting! This means that you have valuable research to do or a particular nonprofit to build or a community resource you’re passionate about developing. You have a distinct vision for how something could be improved or advanced, and you’re ready to ask for funding or other support to help this vision become a reality.

writing a covering letter for a grant proposal

As you reach toward this unrealized vision by developing a grant proposal, you should think about successful grant writing as an act of imagination. Professor Kate Vieira, a Curriculum and Instruction professor at UW-Madison with considerable grant writing experience, describes grant proposal writing as a creative process akin to fiction writing—these are works of imagination. Professor Vieira recommends approaching the task of writing a grant proposal with an attitude of wonder and excitement as you strive to turn your ideas into something real. You have a great idea, and you think that you’re the best person to achieve a specific goal. Now you just need to convince others to get excited about this vision as well.

On this page, we offer some ways of thinking about grant proposals and advice about the process of planning and writing a proposal. We consider grant proposals; overall purposes, audiences, and expectations in order to make this information applicable across a range of contexts. However, this general approach has important limits . First, you will need to get more tailored advice about grant writing within your specific discipline or sphere. Second, you’ll need to follow very carefully the exact instructions about proposals from the granting agencies to which you are applying.

Talk with professors, mentors, previous grant recipients, the funding agency/group you are applying to, and trusted advisers in your field to learn more about what successful grant proposals look like in your situation and to get feedback on your plan and on your drafting process.

Before you start writing your grant proposal, you’ll want to make sure that you:

  • develop a specific, meaningful, actionable plan for what you want to do and why you want to do it;
  • consider how your plan will achieve positive results;
  • locate a granting organization or source that funds projects like the one you have in mind;
  • research that organization to make sure that its mission aligns with your plan;
  • review the organization’s proposal guidelines; and
  • examine sample proposals from your department, peers, and/or the organization.

When you’ve done all of this, you’re ready to start drafting your proposal!

Additional Resources about Grants and Grant Writing

For students, faculty, or staff at UW–Madison, a great place to learn more about grants, grant proposal writing, and granting institutions is the Grants Information Collection at UW–Madison’s Memorial Library. Check out their website and our review of some of their materials as well as links to other useful grant resources here.

Considering the Audience, Purpose, and Expectations of a Grant Proposal

A grant proposal is a very clear, direct document written to a particular organization or funding agency with the purpose of persuading the reviewers to provide you with support because: (1) you have an important and fully considered plan to advance a valuable cause, and (2) you are responsible and capable of realizing that plan.

As you begin planning and drafting your grant proposal, ask yourself:

  • Who is your audience? Think about the people from the agency offering this grant who will read this proposal. What are the agency’s mission and goals? What are its values? How is what you want to do aligned with what this agency is all about? How much do these readers know about what you are interested in? Let your answers to these questions inform how you present your plan, what vocabulary you use, how much background you provide, and how you frame your goals. In considering your audience, you should think about the kind of information these readers will find to be the most persuasive. Is it numbers? If so, make sure that you provide and explain your data. Is it testimonials? Recommendations from other collaborators? Historical precedent? Think closely about how you construct your argument in relationship to your readers.
  • What are the particular expectations for this grant? Pay attention to everything the granting organization requires of you. Your proposal should adhere exactly to these requirements. If you receive any advice that contradicts the expectations of your particular situation ( including from this website ), ignore it! Study representative samples of successful proposals in your field or proposals that have received the particular grant you are applying for.
  • How do you establish your credibility? Make sure that you present yourself as capable, knowledgeable, and forward thinking. Establish your credibility through the thoroughness of your plan, the intentional way that you present its importance and value, and the knowledge you have of what has already been learned or studied. Appropriately reference any past accomplishments that verify your ability to succeed and your commitment to this project. Outline any partnerships you have built with complementary organizations and individuals.
  • How can you clearly and logically present your plan? Make sure that your organization is logical. Divide your proposal into predictable sections and label them with clear headings. Follow exactly the headings and content requirements established by the granting agency’s call for proposals.Grant proposals are direct and to–the–point. This isn’t a good place for you to embroider your prose with flowery metaphors or weave in subtle literary allusions. Your language should be uncluttered and concise. Match the concepts and language your readers use and are familiar with. Your readers shouldn’t have to work hard to understand what you are communicating. For information about writing clear sentences, see this section of our writer’s handbook. However, use a vivid image, compelling anecdote, or memorable phrase if it conveys the urgency or importance of what you are proposing to do.

Common Elements of Grant Proposals

General tips, pay attention to the agency’s key interests..

As mentioned earlier, if there are keywords in the call for proposals—or in the funding organization’s mission or goal—be sure to use some of those terms throughout your proposal. But don’t be too heavy–handed. You want to help your readers understand the connections that exist between your project and their purpose without belaboring these connections.

Organize ideas through numbered lists.

Some grant writers use numbered lists to organize their ideas within their proposal. They set up these lists with phrases like, “This project’s three main goals are . . . ” or, “This plan will involve four stages . . . ” Using numbers in this way may not be eloquent, but it can an efficient way to present your information in a clear and skimmable manner.

Write carefully customized proposals.

Because grant funding is so competitive, you will likely be applying for several different grants from multiple funding agencies. But if you do this, make sure that you carefully design each proposal to respond to the different interests, expectations, and guidelines of each source. While you might scavenge parts of one proposal for another, never use the exact same proposal twice . Additionally when you apply to more than one source at the same time, be sure to think strategically about the kind of support you are asking from which organization. Do your research to find out, for example, which source is more likely to support a request for materials and which is more interested in covering the cost of personnel.

Go after grants of all sizes.

Pay attention to small grant opportunities as well as big grant opportunities. In fact, sometimes securing a smaller grant can make your appeal for a larger grant more attractive. Showing that one or two stakeholders have already supported your project can bolster your credibility.

Don’t give up! Keep on writing!

Writing a grant proposal is hard work. It requires you to closely analyze your vision and consider critically how your solution will effectively respond to a gap, problem, or deficiency. And often, even for seasoned grant writers, this process ends with rejection. But while grant writers don’t receive many of the grants they apply to, they find the process of carefully delineating and justifying their objectives and methods to be productive. Writing closely about your project helps you think about and assess it regardless of what the grant committee decides. And of course, if you do receive a grant, the writing won’t be over. Many grants require progress reports and updates, so be prepared to keep on writing!

Successful Sample Grant Proposals

One of the best ways to learn how to write grant proposals is to analyze successful samples. We’ve annotated and uploaded three very different kinds of successful proposals written by colleagues associated with UW–Madison. We encourage you to carefully read these samples along with the annotations we’ve provided that direct your attention to specific ways each one is doing the work of a strong proposal. But don’t stop with these! Find additional samples on your own of successful proposals like the one you’re writing to help guide and further your understanding of what has worked and been persuasive.

  • Sample Grant Proposal 1 (PDF) Fellowship Proposal for UW–Madison’s Center for the Humanities’ Public Humanities Exchange (HEX)
  • Sample Grant Proposal 2 (PDF) Proposal for a 3–Year National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship
  • Sample Grant Proposal 3 (PDF) Madison Writing Assistance’s grant proposal to the Evjue Foundation

writing a covering letter for a grant proposal

Academic and Professional Writing

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Analysis Papers

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Writing a Rhetorical Précis to Analyze Nonfiction Texts

Incorporating Interview Data

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Additional Resources for Grants and Proposal Writing

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Writing Personal Statements for Ph.D. Programs

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Advice for Students Writing Thank-You Notes to Donors

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Grant Application Cover Letter

  • September 22, 2023

Grant Application Cover Letter

A Grant Application Cover Letter is a formal document that accompanies a grant application, typically addressed to a potential grantor or a funding organization. This letter serves as an introduction to the grant proposal, providing a concise overview of the project or program for which funding is sought.

It plays a critical role in making a first impression and convincing the grantor that the project is worth considering for funding.

The art of crafting a compelling grant application cover letter is integral in navigating the competitive terrain of grant procurement. This initial document serves as a pivotal interface between the applicant and the potential funding entity, reflecting the aspirations, the precision, and the authenticity of the proposed project.

A well-constructed cover letter can be instrumental in shaping favorable impressions, setting the stage for a thorough review of the accompanying application.

The essence of a grant application cover letter is to succinctly communicate the core objectives and anticipated impacts of the proposed endeavor. It acts as a gateway to the intricate details of the application, providing a glimpse into the innovation, relevance, and feasibility embedded within the project.

Given its paramount importance, it is crucial for applicants to meticulously align the content of the cover letter with the ethos and expectations of the funding organization.

In the dynamic landscape of grant procurement, the necessity for clarity, coherence, and congruence in articulating project outlines and objectives cannot be overstated.

The cover letter should resonate with the mission and values of the granting entity, elucidating the synergies between the proposed project and the overarching goals of the funder.

The intricate balance between conciseness and comprehensiveness in presenting the project’s scope and significance is vital in maintaining the interest and curiosity of the reviewers.

The strategic incorporation of pertinent information regarding the applicant’s background, expertise, and the contextual relevance of the project is crucial in establishing credibility and demonstrating commitment.

The inclusion of such elements not only substantiates the feasibility of the project but also reinforces the alignment between the applicant’s capabilities and the project’s demands. It serves to instill confidence in the reviewers about the applicant’s competence and the potential success of the proposed initiative.

Moreover, the articulation of the project’s goals, the anticipated outcomes, and the prospective benefits is essential in elucidating the transformative potential embedded within the proposal.

It provides an opportunity for applicants to showcase the uniqueness and the value proposition of their project, distinguishing it from the plethora of applications. The emphasis on the anticipated impacts and the broader implications of the project fosters a sense of relevance and urgency, compelling the reviewers to delve deeper into the application.

In this realm of incessant competition and evolving expectations, the role of meticulous research and nuanced understanding of the funding organization’s priorities is undeniable. The nuanced tailoring of the cover letter to resonate with the specific interests, values, and mission of the grantor is instrumental in establishing a connection and fostering alignment. The infusion of insights gleaned from thorough research enhances the authenticity and the contextual relevance of the cover letter, optimizing its potential to captivate and convince.

Furthermore, the meticulous attention to detail and adherence to the prescribed guidelines and format is essential in preserving the integrity and the professionalism of the application. The precision in language, the clarity in expression, and the coherence in structure are vital in conveying the seriousness and the sophistication inherent in the proposal. The avoidance of ambiguity, redundancy, and over-complexity is key in maintaining the fluidity and the accessibility of the content.

Understanding the Purpose

A grant application cover letter often serves as the first point of contact between the applicant and the granting institution. The purpose of this crucial document goes beyond merely introducing the project; it acts as a window, revealing the potential, viability, and relevance of the proposed endeavor, and its alignment with the funder’s objectives.

Understanding the purpose of a cover letter in the grant application process is pivotal. It’s the initial framework, setting the tone and providing a concise snapshot of the applicant’s proposal.

This document is vital for creating a strong first impression, reflecting the essence of the project and its potential impact. It lays the groundwork, inviting the grantor to explore the application further, beckoning them into the depths of the envisioned project, its aims, methodologies, and the anticipated outcomes.

Importance of a Cover Letter:

The value of a meticulously crafted cover letter cannot be understated in the world of grant applications. It’s the initial handshake, the first interaction that could make or break the journey of the proposed project. It’s not merely an informative piece but a persuasive document that strives to resonate with the reviewers, subtly conveying the symbiotic alignment between the project’s goals and the funding organization’s mission. It serves to entice, to pique interest, leading the way for the detailed exposition contained within the application.

Role in Creating a First Impression:

First impressions carry immense weight, dictating the subsequent interactions and shaping the perceptions of the reviewers. A well-articulated cover letter is instrumental in constructing a favorable and lasting impression.

It’s the preliminary canvas, painting a vivid picture of the project’s essence, its innovativeness, and its potential to effect meaningful change. The emphasis on clarity, conciseness, and relevance is paramount in ensuring the sustained interest and engagement of the reviewers, steering them towards a deeper exploration of the proposal.

Complementing the Grant Application:

The cover letter and the grant application share a symbiotic relationship, each enhancing the impact of the other. The cover letter serves as a gateway, a concise summary accentuating the pivotal aspects of the project, while the application delves into the intricate details, substantiating the claims and the projections made in the cover letter. This harmonious interplay is crucial in presenting a coherent, comprehensive, and compelling narrative, optimizing the chances of securing the coveted grant.

Setting the Tone:

The tone of the cover letter is a subtle yet powerful element, reflecting the applicant’s approach, attitude, and the level of professionalism. A balanced, respectful, and earnest tone is crucial in establishing rapport and credibility. The infusion of enthusiasm, conviction, and humility can significantly enhance the relatability and the authenticity of the document, fostering a sense of trust and resonance with the reviewers. The deliberate alignment of the tone with the ethos and the expectations of the funding organization is key in optimizing the impact and the persuasiveness of the cover letter.

Essential Components

The crafting of an effective grant application cover letter is akin to constructing a building; every component, every element has a role, ensuring the overall stability, coherence, and impact of the structure. The integral components of a cover letter work in unison to present a well-rounded picture of the project, its relevance, and the prospective benefits, compelling the reviewers to delve deeper into the details provided in the grant application.

A well-structured cover letter is a blend of pertinent information, clear articulation, and strategic emphasis. It consists of several critical elements, each contributing to the overall narrative and impact of the document.

These components, from address to signature, collectively serve to introduce, elucidate, and emphasize the project’s goals, methodologies, anticipated outcomes, and alignment with the funding organization’s mission and values. The meticulous attention to each element ensures the coherence, clarity, and persuasiveness of the cover letter, optimizing its potential to captivate and convince.

Address and Salutation:

The address and salutation set the tone for the interaction, reflecting the professionalism and the attention to detail inherent in the applicant. The accurate addressing of the funding organization and the appropriate salutation are foundational in establishing rapport and conveying respect. The meticulous verification of the organization’s name, the recipient’s title, and the preferred form of address is crucial in avoiding inaccuracies and ensuring a positive first impression.

Introduction:

The introduction serves as the entry point, the initial glimpse into the essence of the proposed project. It’s the succinct articulation of the project’s core objectives, its relevance, and its alignment with the funder’s goals. The strategic emphasis on clarity, conciseness, and relevance in the introduction is vital in capturing the interest of the reviewers and compelling them to explore further. The integration of a hook, a unique angle or insight, can significantly enhance the impact and the memorability of the introduction.

Project Description:

The project description is the heart of the cover letter, providing a concise yet comprehensive overview of the proposed endeavor. It delves into the specifics, elucidating the methodologies, the anticipated outcomes, and the broader implications of the project. The meticulous balancing of detail and brevity is crucial in maintaining the engagement of the reviewers, providing them with a clear understanding of the project’s scope, significance, and feasibility, while fostering a sense of curiosity and anticipation.

Project’s Objectives:

The articulation of the project’s objectives serves to clarify the envisioned outcomes and the intended impacts of the proposal. It’s the clear, coherent presentation of the goals, the transformative potential, and the alignment with the funding organization’s mission. The emphasis on specificity, measurability, attainability, relevance, and time-bound nature of the objectives is essential in conveying the viability and the value proposition of the project, instilling confidence in the reviewers about the prospects of success.

Budget Overview:

The budget overview provides a snapshot of the financial aspects of the project, offering insights into the allocation, utilization, and management of the funds. It’s the transparent, accountable presentation of the financial needs, the justifications, and the anticipated returns on investment. The strategic integration of a budget overview in the cover letter is instrumental in establishing credibility, demonstrating financial acumen, and reinforcing the feasibility and the sustainability of the project.

Closing Remarks and Signature:

The closing remarks and the signature are the final touches, the concluding interactions that re-emphasize the key points and express gratitude for the consideration. The infusion of sincerity, humility, and optimism in the closing remarks is vital in leaving a lasting, positive impression. The professional, respectful signature reflects the earnestness and the commitment of the applicant, serving as a subtle reminder of the authenticity and the integrity inherent in the proposal.

Tailoring the Content

Navigating the nuanced landscape of grant application cover letters necessitates more than just a clear understanding of the project and its components; it requires a meticulous approach to tailoring content. Customizing the narrative to align with the values, interests, and expectations of the granting organization is pivotal in creating resonance and establishing connection.

Tailoring the content of a grant application cover letter is akin to designing a key that perfectly fits a lock. It involves a comprehensive understanding of the funding organization’s mission, goals, and preferences, and aligning the cover letter’s narrative, tone, and emphasis accordingly. This customized approach enhances the relevance and the appeal of the document, optimizing its potential to engage, resonate, and convince. It transforms the cover letter into a dynamic, adaptive entity that speaks directly to the unique needs and aspirations of the grantor.

Understanding the Funder’s Mission:

To tailor content effectively, a profound understanding of the funder’s mission and values is indispensable. This knowledge serves as the foundation upon which the narrative is built, ensuring alignment and coherence with the grantor’s expectations and aspirations. A deep dive into the organization’s objectives, areas of interest, and previous funding initiatives provides insights into their preferences and priorities, enabling the crafting of a narrative that is attuned to their ethos.

Aligning Project Goals:

Once the funder’s mission is discerned, aligning the project’s goals with it is crucial. This involves highlighting the synergies between the proposed project and the grantor’s objectives, emphasizing the mutual benefits and the shared vision. Articulating the project’s objectives in a way that reflects the funder’s interests and values enhances the perceived relevance and value of the proposal, fostering a sense of partnership and shared purpose.

Demonstrating Impact:

The emphasis on the anticipated impacts and benefits of the project is integral in tailoring the content. Demonstrating the transformative potential of the proposal in terms that resonate with the funder’s goals creates a compelling narrative. The quantifiable presentation of the expected outcomes, their broader implications, and their alignment with the grantor’s mission reinforces the feasibility and the significance of the project, instilling confidence and interest in the reviewers.

Using Appropriate Language:

The language used in the cover letter is a subtle yet powerful element in tailoring the content. It reflects the understanding, the respect, and the alignment with the grantor’s culture and values. Adopting a tone and a vocabulary that resonate with the organization’s ethos enhances the relatability and the accessibility of the document. The infusion of terms, phrases, and references that are familiar and valued by the grantor contributes to the authenticity and the appeal of the narrative.

Addressing Specific Criteria:

Funding organizations often have specific criteria and expectations for grant applications. Addressing these explicitly and meticulously in the cover letter is essential in creating a tailored narrative. It demonstrates attentiveness, thoroughness, and alignment with the organization’s standards and requirements. Providing clear, concise responses to the outlined criteria enhances the clarity and the coherence of the document, optimizing its potential to meet the specific needs and expectations of the grantor.

Incorporating Feedback:

If available, incorporating feedback from previous interactions or applications with the funding organization is a strategic move in tailoring content. It reflects adaptability, responsiveness, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Addressing the areas of concern, emphasizing the enhancements made, and reiterating the alignment with the funder’s goals contribute to the credibility and the persuasiveness of the proposal, optimizing its chances of success.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Crafting a compelling grant application cover letter involves navigating around various potential pitfalls. These missteps can significantly hinder the impact and effectiveness of the document, thereby reducing the likelihood of securing the grant.

Identifying common pitfalls in writing grant application cover letters is crucial for avoiding them and enhancing the document’s effectiveness. These pitfalls often revolve around clarity, relevance, conciseness, and alignment with the grantor’s mission and expectations. By being cognizant of these pitfalls and implementing strategic measures, applicants can optimize the cover letter’s coherence, persuasiveness, and appeal, increasing the chances of a favorable reception.

Lack of Clarity:

One common pitfall is the lack of clarity and coherence in presenting the project’s goals, methodologies, and anticipated outcomes. How to Avoid: Prioritize clear, concise articulation of the project’s essence and its alignment with the funder’s mission. Use straightforward language and logical structuring to enhance understanding and engagement.

Neglecting the Funder’s Mission:

Another pitfall is neglecting to align the project’s objectives and impacts with the funder’s mission and values. How to Avoid: Conduct thorough research on the funding organization’s goals, preferences, and previous grants to tailor the content effectively, emphasizing mutual benefits and shared values.

Overloading with Details:

Overloading the cover letter with excessive details and technical jargon can overwhelm the reviewers and obscure the main points. How to Avoid: Maintain a balance between detail and brevity, focusing on the most pivotal aspects of the project. Use accessible language and provide succinct, relevant information to keep the reviewers engaged and informed.

Ignoring Specific Criteria:

Ignoring the specific criteria and guidelines provided by the funding organization can lead to non-compliance and reduced credibility. How to Avoid: Carefully review the application guidelines and address each criterion meticulously, demonstrating attentiveness and alignment with the organization’s standards and expectations.

Overlooking Proofreading:

Submitting a cover letter with errors and inconsistencies can convey a lack of professionalism and attention to detail. How to Avoid: Allocate ample time for proofreading and revisions. Seek feedback from peers or mentors and use editing tools to ensure accuracy, coherence, and polish.

Grant Application Cover Letter Example

Dear Madam Rosy,

I am reaching out on behalf of Girls Empower, a dedicated non-profit organization with a mission to foster learning and development opportunities for young girls from underserved communities.

We believe in the transformative power of education and empowerment to build a foundation for a more equitable, inclusive future. We are fervent advocates of nurturing potential, fostering resilience, and creating platforms for voices waiting to be heard.

We are writing to express our sincere interest in partnering with the Impact Makers Foundation, whose commitment to making a lasting difference aligns seamlessly with our core values and objectives. We humbly seek your support and consideration for a grant amount of  $150,000 to launch our initiative titled “E mpowering Futures: Nurturing the Next Generation of Female Leaders.”

The “Empowering Futures” initiative aims to provide holistic education, mentorship, and skill development programs for 200 young girls aged 10-15 in Ohio, focusing on STEM education, leadership training, and personal development. We anticipate that the successful implementation of this project will result in enhanced academic performance, improved self-esteem, and the cultivation of leadership skills among the participants, ultimately contributing to the development of empowered, informed individuals capable of driving positive change in their communities.

We believe our initiative resonates with the mission of the Impact Makers Foundation to cultivate change and foster development in communities in need. The synergies between our goals create a mutual ground for collaboration, wherein we can collectively work towards the empowerment and upliftment of young girls, aiding them in transcending barriers and realizing their fullest potentials.

Our approach combines immersive learning experiences, mentorship programs, and interactive workshops. Each participant will be paired with a mentor to guide them through their journey, fostering a supportive, enriching environment. We anticipate the transformative impact of our program will not only be reflected in the improved academic and personal development of the participants but also in the positive ripple effects it will create within their communities.

The requested grant of $150,000  will be allocated judiciously to cover program development, educational materials, mentorship facilitation, and logistical expenses. We are committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and optimal utilization of the funds to maximize the impact of the initiative.

We are excited about the prospect of collaborating with the Impact Makers Foundation to bring our shared vision to life. We believe that, together, we can ignite the spark of learning, leadership, and empowerment in the hearts of young girls, creating a wave of positive change that will echo through generations.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude for considering our application and are open to providing any additional information or clarifications required. We eagerly await the opportunity to discuss our proposal further and explore the possibilities of joining hands to make a lasting impact in the lives of the young girls who are the promise of our future.

Thank you for your time, consideration, and dedication to creating a world where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and make a difference.

Joy Martins

Executive Director

Girls Empower

Crafting an articulate and impactful grant application cover letter is truly an art form that combines clarity, coherence, precision, and a deep understanding of both the project at hand and the mission of the funding organization. From understanding the intrinsic purpose of the cover letter to meticulously tailoring the content and avoiding common pitfalls, each step in the process is crucial in constructing a compelling narrative that resonates with the grantors.

This comprehensive exploration has delved into the multifaceted approach required to master the art of writing grant application cover letters.

We’ve navigated through the essential components, the significance of tailoring the content, and the importance of avoiding typical missteps. The insights provided aim to empower individuals and organizations to create powerful, persuasive cover letters that align seamlessly with the values and objectives of funding bodies, thereby optimizing the chances of securing essential grant funding.

Remember, a well-crafted cover letter serves as the gateway to your project, reflecting its essence, its potential, and its alignment with the funder’s mission. It’s the strategic amalgamation of authenticity, alignment, clarity, and relevance that constructs a convincing, memorable narrative.

So, as you embark on your grant application journey, keep in mind the invaluable techniques and insights discussed, and approach the art of writing grant application cover letters with diligence, adaptability, and a profound sense of purpose.

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Elevate Your Grant Writing Game: Dive Deeper with Expert Resources!

If you’ve ever felt the rush of excitement upon spotting a potential grant opportunity, only to be met with the daunting challenge of crafting the perfect proposal, you’re not alone.

Grant writing is both an art and a science, and I’ve distilled years of expertise into a collection of resources tailored to guide you, whether you’re a nonprofit visionary, a rising freelancer, or a small business owner.

Handpicked Titles Just For You:

1.  Advanced Grant Writing for Nonprofits : Dive beyond the basics and navigate the intricate nuances to stand out.

2.  Becoming the Grant Guru:  Embrace your freelance journey with techniques and strategies that ensure success in the grant universe.

3.  Mastering Grant Writing:  Your nonprofit’s go-to guide for developing compelling proposals that captivate and convince.

4.  The Small Business’s Guide to Winning Grants : Tailored insights to ensure your business’s endeavors are backed by the right funding.

 Whether you’re taking your first steps in grant writing or seeking to refine your approach, there’s something in this collection for everyone.

Invest in your future now.  These titles are  available on Amazon, both in Kindle and paperback formats . Arm yourself with the knowledge to not just compete, but to excel.

Dive into a World of Grants Mastery  – Grab Your Copies on  Amazon

Fuel your passion, secure that funding, and bring your vision to life!

Work With Me: Elevate Your Nonprofit’s Grant Writing Game!

Hello passionate changemakers,

Does your nonprofit organization resonate with these challenges?

1. Feeling overwhelmed by the intricate maze of grant proposal writing?

2. Struggling to secure vital funding due to lackluster proposals?

3. Battling with limited in-house expertise to identify suitable grant opportunities?

4. Frustrated by not knowing how to articulate your mission effectively to potential funders?

If you nodded in agreement to any of these, you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: Together, we can change this narrative.

Why Partner With Me?

I bring to the table a unique blend of expertise and experience. As a seasoned Grant Writing Consultant, I’ve dedicated my career to mastering the art and science of grant writing. But beyond the knowledge, I carry a heartfelt passion for amplifying the impact of nonprofits like yours.

What I Offer:

1.  Grant Writing Training:  Let’s empower your team! Through comprehensive workshops, I’ll train your staff to craft compelling proposals that captivate, convince, and convert.

2.  Personalized Grant Proposal Writing:  Leverage my expertise to develop meticulously tailored proposals that reflect your organization’s vision, mission, and impact stories.

3.  Strategic Grant Research:  Don’t waste hours on unsuitable opportunities. With my deep industry insights, I’ll help identify grants that align with your objectives and values.

4.  Report Development:  Secure future funding by showcasing your successes. I’ll help you design robust, engaging reports that keep funders connected to your cause.

Our Journey Together:

Our collaboration begins with understanding – diving deep into your organization’s ethos, the communities you serve, and the impact you wish to create. It’s a partnership where your dreams become mine, and together, we’ll weave narratives that resonate, inspire, and secure the resources you need.

Your work in the nonprofit sector is invaluable. Every program initiated, every life touched, every community transformed – it all starts with a well-written proposal that opens doors to necessary funding. Let me be that catalyst for you.

A Future of Possibilities:

Picture this: A future where your nonprofit isn’t just surviving, but thriving. A world where your initiatives are backed by ample funding, and your stories of impact echo in the hearts of donors and communities alike.

So, if you’re ready to ascend the ladder of grant writing success and fuel your organization’s mission with robust funding, I’m here, eager and ready.

Let’s co-create this success story.

Reach out today, and let’s set the stage for a brighter, impactful tomorrow.

Email Address:  [email protected]

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How to Write a Grant Proposal for Your Nonprofit Organization + Template & Examples

business grant proposal

In order to get funding for your nonprofit corporation, you may find yourself writing a grant proposal to secure nonprofit grants . A great proposal can make all the difference in whether or not your nonprofit receives the money it needs. In this article, we’ll outline what should be included in your grant proposal and we’ll give you a sample template with an example of how to be successful in your proposal.

What Is a Grant Proposal?

A grant proposal is a document that requests funding from a government agency or private foundation. The proposal outlines the nonprofit’s mission and goals, as well as how the funding will be used. A grant is similar to a business plan; the key difference is that a business plan is typically presented to a private party who will fund your organization in return for debt or equity. If creating a business plan, we suggest using an AI business plan generator . If creating a grant, use the nonprofit grant proposal template below.

What Should Be Included In Your Grant Proposal?

There are several key elements that should be included in your grant proposal:

-Cover Letter/Letter Of Intent: This is a letter that introduces your nonprofit and outlines its mission. It should also explain why you are requesting funding and how the money will be used.

-Executive Summary: This is a brief overview of your nonprofit and what it does. It should include information on your target population, as well as the goals of your nonprofit and how the funding will be used.

-Needs Statement: This is a statement that outlines the problems your nonprofit is trying to solve. It should include data and statistics to back up your claims.

-Program Description: This is a description of the programs and services your nonprofit offers. It should include information on who the programs serve, as well as how they are operated.

-Budget: This is a detailed budget of how the funding will be used. It should include information on salaries, overhead costs, and any other expenses.

-Evaluation Plan: This is a plan for the evaluation process that determines the success of your nonprofit programs. It should include information regarding who will be responsible for conducting the evaluation, as well as how often it will be conducted.

-References: This is a list of references that can attest to the successful work or services offered by the nonprofit organization. References can be provided by individuals, businesses, or other organizations.

-Proof Of 501(c)3 Status: Some organizations may require proof that your nonprofit is a 501(c)3 organization. The designation as a “501(c)3” nonprofit organization certifies the exemption of federal taxes for your nonprofit.

Step By Step Process of Writing a Grant Proposal

Now that you know what should be included in your proposal, it’s time to start writing. Follow these steps to ensure that your proposal is well-written and accurate:

Identify The Problem/Program That Needs Funding

The first step in writing your proposal is to identify the problem or program that needs funding. What are you trying to solve with this grant money? Be specific and use data and statistics to back up your claims.

Research Grant Options

Before you start writing your proposal, it’s important to do your research. You should have a good understanding of the organization you are applying to and what their requirements are. Additionally, you should be familiar with the grant process and what is required of you.

Gather the Required Documents

Once you have a good understanding of the grant process, it’s time to start gathering the required documents. This will vary depending on the organization you are applying to, but may include things like your nonprofit’s 501(c)3 status, financial statements, and program evaluations.

Write a Cover Letter/Letter of Intent

The cover letter or letter of intent is your nonprofit’s introduction. In this letter, you will want to explain the mission and goals of your nonprofit organization. You should also explain why you are requesting funding and how the money will be used.

Write the Rest of the Grant Proposal

Now it’s time to start writing the rest of your proposal. Begin with an executive summary that outlines your nonprofit and what it does. Then, include a needs statement that outlines the problems you are trying to solve, followed by a program description that outlines the programs and services you offer. Next, include a detailed budget of how the funding will be used. Finally, include an evaluation plan of how you will evaluate the success of your nonprofit’s programs.

Proofread and Edit Your Proposal

Once you have finished writing your proposal, it’s time to proofread and edit it. Make sure that there are no errors and that all of the required information is included. Additionally, you may want to have someone else read it over to make sure that it is clear and concise.

Finalize and Submit

After you have proofread and edited your proposal, it’s time to submit it. Follow the instructions of the organization you are applying to and submit your proposal by the deadline.

After you have submitted your proposal, it’s important to follow up. This shows that you are interested in the grant and that you are committed to the process. Additionally, it gives you an opportunity to clarify any questions or concerns that the organization may have.

Grant Proposal Template & Example

If you need some help getting started, you can use the following template as a guide. Keep in mind that this is just a general outline and you will need to tailor it to the specific organization you are applying to.

Name of Organization:

Phone Number:

Contact Name:

We are pleased to submit our grant proposal for your consideration. Our organization, (name of organization), is a non-profit (or for-profit) corporation that is dedicated to (mission statement). We are requesting funding in the amount of $ (requested amount) for our programs and services.

The money we receive from this grant will be used to fund our (program name) program. This program provides (services offered). Last year, we served a total of (number of clients served). We are expecting to serve an increased number of (clients/patients/students, etc.) this year.

Our program is unique because (explain what makes your program special or different from others). We have been in operation for (length of time) and our track record shows that we are successful at (outcomes achieved).

Our organization is run by a board of directors who are committed to our mission. We have a staff of qualified professionals who are experienced in working with (population served). Our programs are accredited by (name of accrediting body, if applicable).

Attached to this proposal, you will find our non-profit exemption status, financial statements, program evaluations, and other supporting materials. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We thank you for your time and consideration.

(Your name)

(Your title)

Four common grant proposal documents (free samples included)

  • Melissa Pulis (she/her)
  • July 13, 2023

Person typing on a laptop with document icons coming out of a folder.

Nonprofit work means paperwork. While Candid is working to reduce that burden broadly, here is one specific way we are trying to help: by providing sample grant proposal documents . 

There are four major documents that you may need to create if your nonprofit is looking for funding. Each has a different purpose and elements you’ll need to make your case to funders.  

In this blog, we share the major types of grant proposal documents, their components, and free sample resources to show you what a successful version of each one looks like. 

Letters of inquiry (LOI)

If you’re new to fundraising and grant writing, you may have not heard the term letter of inquiry , or LOI. Honestly, when you do, it’s good news. 

A letter of inquiry or LOI is something a funder may ask for in lieu of a full grant proposal. Instead of a giant stack of papers, you just need to write a few pages to create a LOI that will get the funder excited to support your cause or project.  

Sometimes, this can be the first step in a funder’s broader grant proposal process. In this case, you may be asked to complete a LOI to show whether you meet the grant criteria, so time is not wasted on a full proposal. Other times, it serves as the entire proposal. 

Here’s what a letter of inquiry should include: 

  • An introduction that summarizes the letter.  
  • A brief description of your organization and why this particular project is important.  
  • A statement of need that convinces the reader your project meets the specific needs of those you serve. 
  • A methodology that explains how you’ll do it. 
  • Other funding sources that are being approached. 
  • Finally, a summary of what was just said and a brief thank you to the funder for considering your organization.  

The biggest challenge is you only get a couple pages to make your case. In our LOI sample documents , you will see examples of how you can summarize projects in a compelling and concise way. 

Cover letters

This is the most important part of your grant proposal: the cover letter . Think of a cover letter as a compelling introduction to the contents of your full proposal. It’s your first chance to connect your project with the funder’s philanthropic mission.  

At minimum, your cover letter should include: 

  • An introduction to your project. 
  • The dollar amount of funding you need.  
  • How your project and organization will further the foundation’s mission. 
  • A list that outlines the proposal’s contents. 
  • Contact details in case the funder wants additional information. 
  • A signature from your organization’s executive director. 

Additionally, if your organization has branded letterhead, consider using it for added polish. 

In our sample documents, you’ll find three different examples of cover letters that include these aspects. 

Proposal budgets 

Proposal budgets may seem a bit dull, but many funders say it’s the first part of a grant proposal that they read. Your budget should show your credibility and impact with numbers.  

A proposal budget should include: 

  • Grants and other funding contributions. 
  • Earned income from events, products, and fees. 
  • Direct costs, like staff time, consultants, supplies, equipment, and evaluation (such as conducting surveys or collecting feedback). 
  • Indirect costs—or the invisible costs, like rent, utilities, office supplies, marketing, and administrative staff. 

Make sure your budget adds up (it’s a big red flag when it doesn’t). Not only should the math be correct, but it should also match the request for funding you’re making in the proposal.  

To see this in practice, review our proposal budget sample documents.  

Full grant proposals

Here’s the big one. Writing a full grant proposal can be a little intimidating.   

Before you begin, make sure to read and re-read the instructions from the funder. You don’t want to miss some simple but important proposal requirements, like using a specific font. 

Here are the key elements of a proposal: 

  • Executive summary. This is where you’ll give a snapshot of the problem, your solution for addressing it, why your organization can help, and the amount of funding you’ll need to do so. 
  • Needs statement. Next is a needs statement that shows why your project is needed and aligned with funders’ focus areas. 
  • Project description. In this section, you’ll share your project’s goals and objectives, detailed activities, and information about your organization. 
  • Proposal budget. Finally, a budget that shows in numbers how you’ll address the problem. 

Reading examples of full grant proposal documents can be a helpful way to get started. You can also check out our free live and on-demand trainings .  

Need more help? Our team of online librarians is here to provide resources and support. You can reach out to them by emailing [email protected] or via chat during business hours.  

  • Tips & Training
  • International
  • Candid’s tools
  • Fundraising, giving, and donations
  • Nonprofit and charity work

About the author

Portrait of Melissa Pulis

Melissa is an experienced information professional who leads Candid’s Online Librarian program and oversees content creation for Candid Learning’s Knowledge Base Articles. She is passionate about librarianship, providing equitable access to information, and teaching people how to navigate online resources.

In addition to her experience leading the Online Librarian program, Melissa has extensive nonprofit experience having worked in development for both small and large Cleveland-area nonprofits and as a grants manager for a private foundation. Melissa has a Master of Library and Information Science from Kent State University.

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Geoffrey says:

Insightful well arranged tips on proposal writing. Want to learn more and examples

Jesus Loera says:

Good evening friends, I am Jesus Loera. Lately I have become interested in grant writing but haven't a clue where to start. I am a life long resident of Brownsville Texas. We are stuffed up against the Mexican border. Not extremely prosperous, sad to say. I work for a Community College in need of funding, I am a member of a Unitarian Church with only 6 members and I recently joined the local Freemasons. All these organizations in desperate need of finical help. I am willing to help as much as possible, but in need of some coaching.

Kate, Digital Communications Manager, Candid says:

Candid does not suggest specific funders or approach them on your behalf. But we can point you to resources that should help you in your funding search. You can check out our Knowledge Base for information on getting grants and finding donors .

Christian Wilson says:

We need additional funding in the amount of $20,000 to feed 700 people during the weekend when there are no services provided. The local funders have been tapped out and tell us that they cannot assist us. Can you advise me of other alternative funding that might be available so that we can continue to feed these families?

Leslie England says:

Greetings! We are a 501c3 trying to get a grant to buy a building for a homeless shelter in our area. We have no idea how to find grants or apply for them. Where do you begin?

Jean niyungeko Fessi says:

the information is so helpful, thanks for being resourceful.

Bruce says:

I also maintain both a paper and electronic file of key documents usually required like IRS letter, BOD list, 1page overview of organization including Mission statement, most recent 990, annual budget including income and expenses. All this helps especially with online applications!

Lorent Damaseke Mvula says:

Thanks for the knowledge and skills I have learned on grant proposals, this really sharpens my knowledge.

RMM- ED says:

Thank you for posting this!

This is super helpful, thank you!

Cindy Dashnaw Jackson says:

This is an incredible resource and a generous action, Melissa. I hope many nonprofits see this article!

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How to Write a Winning Grant Proposal: A Nonprofit’s Guide to Securing Funding

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Grants, which are funds awarded by an outside source and typically earmarked for a particular use, are incredibly valuable for nonprofit organizations to achieve their missions. In fact, it is not uncommon for organizations to rely on this type of funding to cover operating expenses, pay workers, and launch initiatives.

Common sources of grants include public and private institutions, including government departments, family trusts, foundations, and the like.

Because of the competitive nature of the grant process, it’s important to know how to write a grant proposal, how to evaluate which opportunities are worth pursuing, and how to effectively communicate your organization’s intentions.

What Is Grant Writing?

Grant writing is the application process required of an organization seeking certain financial awards. Crafting an impactful grant proposal takes compelling communication, clear language, and an understanding of the funding landscape. To start, it is useful to differentiate between funding sources and the types of grants they offer.

  • Federal grants are a way in which the U.S. government contributes to a wide range of ideas and projects that provide public services or stimulate the economy.
  • State grants vary from federal grants when it comes to administration. For example, a state grant is typically geared toward local needs as opposed to national or international causes.
  • Local (city or county) grants are useful for an even smaller scope. This level of targeted support typically involves the improvement of community development, infrastructure, public services, and individual efforts by community members.
  • Private grants can come from corporate or non-corporate entities, family trusts, foundations, financial institutions, or individuals. When it comes to these types of non-government grants, Candid keeps a global database of opportunities.

How to Write a Grant

These six steps will help you create a strong grant proposal, increasing your chances of achieving the funding and recognition that can drive your organization forward.

Dedicate ample time to analyzing your needs, including what areas of your organization will benefit from grants, exactly how much funding is needed, and realistic outcomes. You will want to thoroughly explore opportunities you qualify for, and allocate resources — time and personnel — to thoughtfully write your grant proposal.

2. Know what sets you apart

Grants are often highly sought after, so you’ll need to be well-versed on the ins and outs of what makes your organization unique and deserving. Conduct thorough research about your field, including the needs you serve and the impact you can make with grant funding. Share specific stories, testimonials, and experiences that stand out to you and the community at large that you serve.

3. Utilize facts and figures

Data will help prove your organization’s worth. Consider providing financial insights, information about existing partnerships, and budgeting outlooks. Use numbers to show the needs of populations you serve and project how beneficial grant funding will be, including plans for allocation.

4. Communicate clearly

Be highly sensitive to each and every requirement. These will vary by grant and must be followed. You’re the expert in your field, but your reader might not be. Write your grant proposal using clear, concise language without industry jargon if it’s not well-known. It’s important to also abide by any word counts or length requirements.

5. Fact-check and proofread

Get another set of eyes on the application to ensure nothing was overlooked, preferably someone with grant writing experience. Spelling errors, misrepresentations, and room for interpretation could all sway a grantor from accepting your proposal.

6. Educate yourself

For those interested in learning the latest nonprofit grant writing practices, USD offers a 100% online course focused on the step-by-step process of grant preparation, organization, and detailed evaluation. This course is best suited for nonprofit professionals and volunteers of all levels, including CEOs, executive directors, grant writers, and fundraising coordinators.

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Grant Writing Do’s & Don’ts

It’s probably clear by now that there are certain actions that will improve your chances of obtaining grant funding or quickly eliminate you from consideration. Here’s a simple breakdown of some of the most common habits to consider (and to avoid) when grant writing.

How do I know if I should apply for a grant?

Start by taking a close look at your organization’s circumstances — financial and otherwise — to evaluate exactly what areas need support. This will allow you to seek grant opportunities that are the right fit, also helping to ensure that you’ll stand out from other applicants.

Where do I find grant opportunities?

Resources like Grants.gov , Candid.org , and the Council on Foundations have searchable databases of grant opportunities. Consult your local network as well to learn about any community resources that might be available.

What are grant writing best practices?

Being prepared with facts and figures to prove your organization’s needs is important. Communicating clearly, knowing the latest industry trends, and setting yourself apart are also best practices when it comes to grant writing.

Where do I learn how to write a proposal for funding?

Courses such as USD’s online Nonprofit Grant Writing are incredibly useful to stay up to date on the latest, most effective methods. Students learn how to identify grant opportunities, step-by-step processes of grant preparation, how to integrate budgeting, and more.

What makes a grant proposal stand out?

Get specific during the grant writing process about how you will use grant funds and what beneficial outcomes are imminent. Make the grantor connect with your cause, even if this is the first time they’re learning about what you do. Include standout stories and examples to paint a clear picture of your circumstances.

What are some common mistakes in grant writing?

All too often, grant proposals include unrealistic asks, industry buzzwords that lack real meaning, and too much room for interpretation. Instead, it’s best to be as straightforward as possible and make clear what good you will be able to achieve with grant funding.

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